Emotional abuse and physical abuse are equally as serious. Perhaps your partner seems so mild-mannered to others that you feel no one would ever believe that he or she could be abusive. He or she may only mistreat you so you feel that there is something wrong with you. Or maybe your relationship is a secret to others and you are afraid that asking for help or sharing your story might put you in the position of being ridiculed.

These are normal feelings for people caught in the cycle of an abusive relationship. They are myths.

There are people that you can go to in full confidentiality that will believe you and help you understand that the abuse is not your fault and that nobody deserves to be treated in a violent and/or controlling way.

Take Action if someone you know is being abusive!

If you feel that you are not in danger, talk to the person about his or her use of violence, and make sure that the person understands that it is both wrong and illegal. If the person is ready to make a change, help him or her to get help.

If you are hurting someone else, have the courage to get help!

No matter what the other person does to provoke you; no matter how justified you feel, no matter what your friends do, it is never ok to harm someone else. Remember that violence against another person, even your dating partner, is against the law and can land you in jail.