Domestic Violence and Abuse

For individuals in Stark County who are planning to leave or have recently left a violent relationship, a safety plan is a helpful tool to outline practical ways to remain safe during the transition. A good safety plan is designed uniquely for your situation. It can include recommendations for ways to cope and heal, communicate the abuse, take legal action and more. Find local resources to help you develop your safety plan.

Domestic violence and abuse can happen to anyone anywhere. And while it’s impossible to know for sure what goes on behind closed doors, there are some revealing signs and symptoms. Acknowledging and reporting them is the first step to ending the violence, so don’t hesitate. If you notice the following warning signs of domestic abuse, contact a trusted resource immediately.

Physical signs

The following visible indicators could be the result of domestic violence:

• Bruises or injuries as a result of choking, punching or being thrown into a solid object
• Long sleeves or clothing that covers the neck
• Heavy makeup to cover discoloration
• Tired due to sleep deprivation

References

• https://www.verywellmind.com/signs-someone-is-being-abused-66535
• https://www.healthyplace.com/abuse/adult-physical-abuse/signs-of-physical-abuse-physically-abused-adults

Behavioral signs

If someone has the following behaviors, they might be experiencing an abusive relationship:

• Less time spent with family, friends or co-workers
• No interest in establishing new relationships
• Feels anxious, depressed or in constant fear
• Endures jealousy and belittling language from their partner
• Limited access to their money, car and phone
• Makes excuses about their partner’s behaviors
• Always has to seek permission
• No control over the clothes they wear or the people they spend time with
• Constant check-ins to update their partner about what they’re doing

References

• https://www.verywellmind.com/signs-someone-is-being-abused-66535
• https://www.healthline.com/health/signs-of-mental-abuse

According to Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital, you should follow these steps to ensure you get the care you need after an assault:

• Contact HAVEN for immediate medical attention from the Mercy Emergency Department.
• Get to a safe space as soon as possible.
• In cases of sexual assault, try to avoid changing your clothes, bathing or brushing your teeth.
• Reach out for support from a trusted adult.
• Remember you have options.
• Request a medical forensic evaluation to address concerns related to the assault (even if you do not have any obvious injuries).

What to expect during your emergency visit

You can expect the following when you seek treatment through the HAVEN program at Mercy Medical Center:

• You will be moved to a private waiting room or medical treatment area as soon as possible.
• A doctor will perform an evaluation and provide treatment for any physical injuries.
• Evidence may be collected, including clothing, hair, blood, urine or other samples at no additional charge.
• Examiners will provide information about your care options and recommendations for safety planning.
• Medical staff will offer any medications or vaccinations needed, which may include prophylactic medications for sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy and HIV.
• Members of the clinical team will help you complete a Victim of Crime Compensation application.
• The nursing staff will talk to you about your rights as a victim of crime and connect you with local social service providers.

These are some of the warning signs of an abusive partner:

• Uses intimidation tactics, such as driving recklessly, breaking objects or slamming walls
• Makes cheating accusations
• Shows excessive jealousy and anger, even over small things
• Belittles or embarrasses their partner in front of others
• Forces their partner to have sexual relations without expressed consent
• Resorts to physical acts of hitting, slapping, punching, grabbing and throwing
• Threatens to kill their partner or themselves
• Threatens to take away, harm or kill their children
• Drinks excessively or abuses drugs
• Blames others when they’re angry, upset or depressed
• Makes decisions without their partner’s input

References

• https://www.helpguide.org/articles/abuse/domestic-violence-and-abuse.htm
• https://www.healthline.com/health/signs-of-mental-abuse
• https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/mental-domestic-abuse-signs

While reporting domestic violence can be scary and difficult, it may very well save a life. If and when you do decide to contact officials, it is important that you are as prepared as possible.

Report incidents or suspicions of domestic violence to your local law enforcement.

Tips for speaking with law enforcement – These recommendations from The National Domestic Violence Hotline could help you feel more comfortable speaking to law enforcement about your experience with teens and domestic violence.

Aside from the physical harm caused by domestic violence, the emotional damage can be far more severe and long-lasting. For young people who are transitioning from victim to survivor, the fallout often includes ongoing mental trauma and emotional stress.

If you are currently experiencing or recovering from violence in the home, consider seeking the safety of a shelter, talking one-on-one with a counselor or joining a local support group. Remember, recovery looks different for everyone, so take the time to discover what works best for you.

View a listing of mental health providers here.

Loveisrespect 

Engaging and empowering young people to prevent and end abusive relationships.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline

National domestic violence resources for teens, young adults and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Ohio Domestic Violence Network 

Support, education and advocacy to help improve the safety of Ohio families.

Talking to your children about domestic violence

Learn ways to open up a healthy and honest dialogue surrounding domestic violence.

Develop A Safety Plan

Based on your current situation, learn where to begin to develop a safety plan.

Journey Center for Safety and Healing

Provides information and services for domestic violence, child abuse and more.

Safety Planning

Helpful information you should know as you prepare to leave an abusive relationship.

WomenSafe, Inc.

Emergency shelter and support services for domestic violence survivors in Northeast Ohio.

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