Domestic Violence

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is any behavior that is used to control a partner. Abuse can be physical or emotional. An abusive partner may try to control the way you act or the way you look. An abusive partner may try to control where you go or what you do. Abuse includes any behavior that can frighten, scare or hurt you. Domestic violence can happen to anyone. It can happen to couples who are married. It can happen to people who live together or who are dating. In Florida, a woman is killed by her partner every three days. It may be hard to believe that you are being abused. Know the signs!

Emotional Abuse:

Physical Abuse:

What Does Abuse Look Like?

Denial happens in every stage of abuse. People being abused can pretend that abuse doesn't happen. They make excuses or pretend that the abuse isn't as bad as it seems. People being abused may think that it's their fault. There are ways people learn to live with abuse. Talk to someone you can trust. Talking to someone is the first step to getting your life back.

Where to Get Help?

You are not alone. You deserve to be treated with respect and kindness. There are support groups that can help you. If someone is physically hurting you that it is a crime. It is a crime even if it happens in your own home. For booklet on Domestic Violence; First Steps, Contact Family Health Services at (850) 245-4100.

Local domestic violence centers provide free and private help. These centers have counselors who know about domestic violence. A trained counselor can help you. The BEST place to learn about your choices is through a domestic violence center. Trained counselors will understand what you are going through. Asking for help is not a sign of failure. Going to a shelter gives you a chance to think clearly and make decisions while in a safe place. For a list of Domestic Violence shelters in Florida, go to http://www.fcadv.org/centers.php

Domestic Violence Centers can help provide:

Safety Plan

If you are being abused, creating a safety plan can help you. A safety plan should include a safe place to stay.

A safety plan may help you:

Plan Ahead

You don't have to wait for an emergency to ask for help. Talk to people who can help you before there is an emergency. Each person's abuse is different. Create a check-list of things you should take with you:

Safety Plan Do's and Don'ts:

     Don't: Use a computer where an abuser can track what you read

     Do: Use a computer at a library or a friend's house

     Don't: Write down your computer passwords ANYWHERE

     Do: Keep computer password and logins private

     Don't: Keep e-mails about your safety plan on your computer

     Do: Have a 'SAFETY' cell phone that can call 911

     Don't: Leave a get-away bag in the home where an abuser can find

     Do: Keep a get-away bag with a friend or family

     Don't: Hide money in the home where an abuser can find it

     Do: Open a bank account or keep extra cash hidden

DISCLAIMER: The Information on this site is not intended to take the place of your doctor or other healthcare professionals. It is a resource to help you make the best decisions and get the most from the medical services available to you. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of all medical conditions.