Leaving an abusive relationship is one of the most dangerous times for a survivor. Preparation and safety planning are critical. This guide provides actionable steps to help you leave safely and start rebuilding your life. 1. Recognizing the Need to Leave Leaving an abuser isn’t just about escaping a toxic relationship—it’s about survival. If you feel controlled, threatened, or physically harmed, your safety is at risk. You deserve a life free from fear. 2. Safety Planning Be

Melanie Brown, also known as Mel B from the Spice Girls, has bravely shared her story about surviving domestic abuse. Through interviews...

If you would rather watch/listen than read, you can find the video to this article HERE . Psychological abuse (also known as mental or emotional abuse) involves a person’s attempts to frighten, control, or isolate you. There are many, many strategies! We’re going to talk about some of them here. If you want to learn about more tactics, be sure to click the link at the end to get my list of many more! You can’t spot ‘em when they happen if you don’t know they exist! In thi

Does the fact that you had sex with somebody before mean that you have given permission this time and the next time? Can you be raped by...

If you would rather watch/listen than read, you can find the video to this article HERE. The most common question I've heard about...

Do you wonder if you're in an abusive relationship? Maybe you already believe you are and just need confirmation, but maybe you're not...

The National Domestic Violence Hotline defines Intimate Partner Abuse (aka Domestic Abuse, Relationship Abuse) as: A pattern of behavior used by one partner to maintain power and control over another partner in an intimate relationship.  That definition is very broad and open, which I believe is their point.  I prefer the term Intimate Partner Violence over Domestic or Relationship Abuse because it is kind of all encompassing, whether you’re dating or married or living togeth

The #1 sign that your life may be in danger is that you feel like your life might be/is in danger.  If you feel that way, please take steps to get yourself safe!  Your gut is your best indicator.​

1. Repeatedly call you, including hang-ups 2. Frequently show up where you are 3. Send unwanted gifts, letters, texts, or emails 4. Damage your home, car, or other property 5. Monitor your phone or computer  6. Use technology to track where you go 7. Drive by or hang out at your home, school, or work 8. Threaten to hurt you, your family, friends, or pets 9. Get info about you by doing online searches, hiring private investigators, going through your garbage, contacting f

1. Has a history of abuse 2. Makes jokes about abuse 3. Is abusive towards children or pets 4. Destroys your things 5. Damages property 6. Invades your privacy 7. Doesn't respect boundaries 8. Is easily angry, jealous, or hostile 9. Is manipulative 10. Is dishonest 11. Is selfish 12. Abuses alcohol and/or other drugs