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October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the hidden issue of intimate partner violence (IPV) and help victims find the support they need. Domestic violence is not limited to physical abuse. It can also take the form of emotional, psychological, financial, and sexual abuse. Recognizing the signs is key to helping someone escape an abusive relationship. Here are 10 signs of an abusive relationship:
Controlling Behavior – Constantly monitoring your activities, who you talk to, and what you do.
Isolation – Cutting you off from friends, family, and social support systems.
Verbal Abuse – Yelling, insulting, or putting you down in private or public.
Jealousy & Accusations – Frequently accusing you of cheating or being unfaithful without reason.
Financial Control – Restricting access to money, preventing you from working, or controlling your finances.
Threats & Intimidation – Using threats of harm, destruction of property, or self-harm to control you.
Blaming – Making you feel responsible for their anger or abusive behavior.
Physical Violence – Hitting, slapping, pushing, or any unwanted physical contact.
Gaslighting – Manipulating you into questioning your reality or making you doubt your memories and perceptions.
Repeated Apologies & Promises to Change – Apologizing after abusive incidents but continuing the same harmful behaviors.
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, help is available. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788 for immediate support. You can also visit www.thehotline.org to chat with an advocate online.
In Denver, Colorado, organizations like SafeHouse Denver provide support for survivors of domestic violence. They offer shelter, counseling, and advocacy services to help individuals rebuild their lives. You can reach SafeHouse Denver’s 24-hour crisis line at 303-318-9989 for local assistance.
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