The United States Department of Justice defines domestic violence as “a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain control over another intimate partner.”  

There are different forms of domestic violence that include, insults, emotional abuse, sexual abuse (pressuring or rape), controlling, blames and threats and physical harm.  Domestic violence can occur with any age, race, gender, or sexual orientation.  Abusers often control who their partner sees and where they go.  They can isolate their partner from family, friends, or any outside support.

• A low self-worth
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Feeling of helplessness
•  Feeling isolated from friends and family
• Loss of interest in things you enjoyed
• Feeling guilty or ashamed for the abuse.