Dating violence and relationship abuse is all too prevalent among today's teens and young adults. One in 5 adolescents and one in 4 young adults are abused in a relationship at some time during these crucial times in their life.  Whether it's in a dating relationship or with peers, many are in abusive relationships.  

When we hear the word "abuse," physical or sexual abuse tends to come to mind, but abuse can take many different forms.

Physical abuse is external, but the internal, often "invisible" abuse many teens and young adults experience is emotional and psychological, too. 

The signs of abuse may not be easily observable, and your teen/young adult may even try to hide that it's happening to them. 

WARNING SIGNS for parents and friends to look for: 

• Withdrawing from friends, family, and activities they used to enjoy.
• Fear of breaking up with partner.
• Fear of making decisions or afraid to bring up certain subjects so that the other person won't get mad.
• Trying to love the boyfriend/girlfriend enough in order to make everything fine.
• Crying a lot, being depressed or unhappy.
• Worrying and obsessing about how to please his/her partner and keep them happy.

What To Do:

• Call the police or 911 if there are signs of abuse- bruises, scars/cuts, unexplained marks on their body or face.
• Encourage your loved one to talk to someone from a domestic violence hotline. The 24 hour national domestic violence hotline number is 1-800-799-7233.
• Help them get in with a counselor at Doorways for a full assessment and evaluation of potential abuse and trauma

Teens and young adults can be very dependent on intimate relationships defining who they are or how they are doing. When an unexpected breakup occurs, many teens/young adults can have significant impacts emotionally in their life, even considering suicide as a way out of the pain. We are always available to help and want to be involved in the process of healing from relationships that hurt.