1. Are you afraid to challenge your partner's opinion or express your own?
2. Do you accept blame for your partner's actions?
3. Does your partner have an explosive temper?
4. Does Your partner hit you?
5. Do you feel controlled, confused, pressured, frightened or intimidated by your partner?
If you answer is YES to any of these, you may be in a potentially violent relationship without knowing it.
Health & Wellness
Emotional, psychological and verbal abuse, date rape and more subtle forms of violence are just as bad if not worse than the physical abuse. The consequences of abuse, violence, and trauma and intense, extending beyond the health and safety of individuals.
In additional to physical injuries, being a victim of violence and trauma can be regarded as a risk factor for a variety of diseases, mental health, and substance abuse conditions. "Each year, medical expenses from domestic violence total at least $3 to $5 billion. Businesses forfeit another $100 million in lost wages, sick leave, absenteeism and non-productivity. (Colorado DV Coalition)
Health Consequences
Physical
Abdominal/thoracic injuries
Bruises, welts, scars
Chronic Pain Syndromes
Disability
Fibromyalgia
Fractures
Gastrointestinal disorders
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Ocular Damage
Reduced Physical functioning
Psychological & Behavioral
Feelings of guilt and shame
Phobias and panic attacks
Poor Self-Esteem
Psychosamatic Disorders
Depression and Anxiety
Suicidal behavior, Self-harm
Smoking
Alcohol and Drug Abuse
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Eating and Sleep Disorders
Unsafe Sexual Behavior
Incarceration
Gynecological Disorders
Infertility
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Miscarriages/ Complications
Sexual Dysfunction
STD'S/HIV/AIDS
Unwanted Pregnancy
Unsafe Abortion
Fatal Health Consequences
AIDS Related Mortality
Maternal Mortality
Homicide
Suicide