What is Domestic Abuse?
Domestic violence is a pattern of learned behavior that one person uses to control a partner in an intimate relationship. Abuse can affect anyone regardless of the person’s culture, race, ethnicity, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or socio-economic background.
1 in 5 full-time employed adults reports they were victims of domestic violence.
Each time a victim is assaulted by their partner and survives that attack, they miss an average of 7 days of work and requires $816 of medical and mental health care.
Warning Signs
Signs of Abuse - For a Victim
- Have repeated unexplainable injuries
- Show signs of being frightened and/or anxious
- Exhibit changes in job performance
- Regularly be late to work or have regular unexplained absences
- Receive an unusual number of phone calls or texts from family members
- Mention troubles at home or feel uncomfortable talking about home life
Signs of Abuse - Perpetrators
Some perpetrators of domestic violence may:
- Steal or damage company property
- Have frequent angry outbursts or temper tantrums
- Display threatening or intimidating behavior
- Call or text a current or former partner excessively
Where To Get Help
Calling a hotline can be intimidating for someone who is experiencing violence. Offer to sit with the person as they make the call. It is important to remind a survivor that making the call does not have to mean they’ve made the decision to leave an abuser; someone can call a hotline to learn more about resources available to them, safety plan, and receive emotional support.
Domestic Abuse Providers in Kent County, MI
Safe Haven Ministries (call or text): 616.452.6664
YWCA West Central Michigan: 616.451.2744
