Knowing what domestic violence looks like in a relationship is one of the best ways for us to know what we are living with. When a relationship is regularly confusing, discouraging, and upsetting it may be time to consider whether it displays signs of abuse.
Be assured that the abuse is never the fault of the victim. Prioritize safety. Educate yourself about domestic violence. Seek help when it's needed.
Do you worry about a friend or family member whose relationship seems "off" to you? Survivors, does any of this feel familiar to you?
For me, the noose of abuse continued to get tighter and tighter. The more passive and helpful and gracious I was, the more he wanted to control me. And the more he said he hated me. Getting out saved my life.
