General warning signs of domestic abuse:
• Bruising in different stages of healing, especially in areas not usually seen by others (i.e.: scalp)
• Bald spots indicating hair has been torn or pulled out
• Very frequent injuries , especially with unusual explanations
• Isolation from family and friends
• Low self esteem, a sense that she doesn’t deserve better treatment
• Self blame/unrealistic guilt (i.e.: “It’s my fault, I shouldn’t have made him mad”)
• Fear of the partner, insecurity about his actions
Warning signs of physical violence
People who are being physically abused may:
• Have frequent injuries, with the excuse of “accidents.”
• Frequently miss work, school, or social occasions, without explanation.
• Dress in clothing designed to hide bruises or scars (e.g. wearing long sleeves in the summer or sunglasses indoors).
The psychological warning signs of abuse
People who are being abused may:
• Have very low self-esteem, even if they used to be confident.
• Show major personality changes (e.g. an outgoing woman becomes withdrawn).
• Be depressed, anxious, or suicidal.
If you or someone you know is suffering from domestic abuse, please call the national hotline for help:
24 Hour National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE
TTY: 1-800-787-3224
