When to ask for Support Women abuse is any threat, act or physical force that is used to create fear, control or intimidate you. The abuser uses power over the those they are abusing. Abusers often use alcohol or drugs as an excuse. But, the abuser is the one responsible for his or her actions. There are many forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, sexual and financial. Some signs of abuse may be evident while others are more subtle. Abused women may change the subject when asked about their home life. On their own, any single indicator mentioned below may not suggest abuse. A combination of these factors may be warning signs of an abusive relationship. Indicators of an abused women: · avoids talking about her home life · is angry, embarrassed or ashamed of her situation · concerned about angering her partner · feels isolated and does not trust others · feels powerless to change the situation · emotionally and financially dependent on her partner · have a low self-esteem · have witnessed abuse in her family · has unexplained injuries Questions to ask yourself … “Does your Partner”: · make you feel stupid, crazy or worthless? · physically hurt / threaten you, your children or your family? · stop you from leaving or seeing friends? · not listen to your opinions and concerns about the relationship? · threaten to take away your children? · tell you that jealousy is a sign of love? · control your money, properties or activities?

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