Domestic abuse is any action or behaviour from a partner or spouse, girlfriend/boyfriend or family member that aims to control you. For some, this is physical violence, for others it takes the form of verbal, emotional, sexual or financial abuse.

One in three women and one in three men have experienced abuse or domestic violence. You might be afraid of reaching out for support. However, there are people who are equipped and willing to help you. Consider reaching out to any of the 3 hotlines in Missouri, United States who with abuse and domestic violence if you are experiencing these signs:

Avoiding certain topics so that you don’t anger your partner/family member
You feel threatened all the time
Being forced to have unsafe sex
Your belongings and property being destroyed
You are embarrassed for your close ones to see how your partner/family member treats you
Your partner/family member constantly checks up on you
Being forced to have sex or perform other sexual activities that you don’t want to
Your privacy online being invaded

Every case of abuse and domestic violence is unique. Every family and partnership has its own story. It’s perfectly normal to feel conflicted and insecure about the whole situation. Going through it alone can be confusing and, importantly, dangerous.

There is no universal recipe for setting free from abuse and domestic violence. However, know that many women, children, and men in Missouri, United States have made it. The first step in the process is opening up to a trusted and understanding person. Then, you can find your way out.

Consider contacting a helpline in Missouri, United States for free, confidential help with abuse and domestic violence today.