Relationships Shouldn't Hurt

"She loves me. She hits me. She gives me presents."
"He says he's never loved anyone like this. He's threatened suicide if I ever leave him."
"She says I'm the only one. She rapes me. She says no one else will ever love me"

Facts to know:

Domestic violence includes a broad spectrum of abusive behaviors
You don't have to be hit to be abused
Abuse can be verbal, emotional, psychological, and/or sexual
Abusive behaviors are oppressive, coercive, and controlling

If you have a friend who is being abused:

Don't ignore it.
Let him/her know privately that you're aware of the abusive situation.
Be there as a friend.
Be a good listener.
Offer him/her support, the space to express hurt, anger, and fear and allow him/her to make his/her own decisions.
Let your friend know that he/she is not responsible for the abuse and does not deserve it
Tell your friend about available resources

Safety Planning: Protect Yourself

Stash some cash for emergencies.
Pack an emergency bag with clothes, important documents, spare keys, and important phone numbers, and keep it in a safe place.
Let someone know about your situation. Give them a code or phrase to signal if you re in danger.
Practice an escape route and identify the safest rooms in your home.
Teach your children to dial 911.

Safety Hotlines

Info provided by Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence (MNADV)
1-800-MD-HELPS

Turnaround, Inc. 410-377-8111
24-hr Hotline: 410-828-6390
Offices in Baltimore City and County