“I think someone I know is being abused.”
What has changed?
- They make excuses for injuries
- Their personality has changed. They used to be so confident, now they have such low self-esteem
- They have become reserved and distant
- They are constantly checking in with their partner
- They never really have access to money, or money on hand
- They seem overly worried about pleasing their partner
- They seem to be cutting off everyone from their life: friends, family, close co-workers
- They’ve been absent at or late to work, school, or social outings for no clear reason
- They’re wearing clothes that don’t fit the season, such as long sleeves in summer to maybe cover bruises
- They have been showing signs of fear, anxiety, or nervousness when they are away from their partner
- They refer to their partner as jealous, moody, having a bad temper, etc.
How can I help?
It’s important to approach them delicately and in private. Do not expect them to be super vocal at first, they may even deny it. All you can do is be a friend and offer your support should they need it, as well as provide them with guidance on who to contact. Men and women alike can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE). Help is available 24/7 in over 170 languages and all calls are anonymous. Read more here.
Tessmer Law Firm, PLLC is assisting clients through separation, divorce, and more. To schedule a consultation click here or call 210-368-9708.