Domestic violence is also known as family violence and it can be generally defined as the attempt, act or intent of someone within a relationship – where the relationship is characterized by intimacy, dependency or trust – to intimidate either by threat or by the use of physical force on another person or property.
DOMESTIC & SEXUAL VIOLENCE
All forms of abusive behaviour are ways in which one human being is trying to have control and/or exploit or have power over another through neglect, intimidation, inducement of fear or by inflicting pain. Abusive behaviour can take many forms including: verbal, physical, sexual, psychological, emotional, spiritual and economic, as well as the violation of rights.
KNOWING IF YOU NEED HELP
While an abusive relationship does not always involve physical violence, it is not uncommon for bad behaviour in a relationship to get worse – which can lead to serious physical or emotional harm over time. If you are experiencing any of these in your relationship, reach out for help.
KNOWING IF YOU NEED HELP
While an abusive relationship does not always involve physical violence, it is not uncommon for bad behaviour in a relationship to get worse – which can lead to serious physical or emotional harm over time. If you are experiencing any of these in your relationship, reach out for help.
GETTING HELP
While an abusive relationship does not always involve physical violence, it is not uncommon for bad behaviour in a relationship to get worse – which can lead to serious physical or emotional harm over time. If you are experiencing any of these in your relationship, reach out for help.
- You are being hit, kicked or physically hurt.
- You or others in your family are being forced to perform sexual activities against your will. Even if you are married or engaged, your partner cannot force you to have sex.
- You, your family members or pets are being threatened or intimidated so that you will do what the other person wants.
- You are being controlled and isolated by not being allowed to leave the house, not being allowed to contact family and friends, or constantly being monitored.
- You are constantly being put down or ignored to the point that you feel worthless.
- You are not getting your basic needs for food, water, clothing or medical care met.
- You don't have access to your own or your family’s money, or have your money and belongings taken from you without permission.
- You are afraid of the other person.
- You are worried that you are forming abusive or unhealthy relationship patterns with your partner.
It’s never too late to seek help
9-1-1
If you are in immediate danger
403-234-SAFE (7233)
If you are experiencing domestic abuse (24-hour Family Violence Helpline)
403-237-5888
Toll Free: 1-877-237-5888
If you have been sexually assaulted (24-hours Sexual Violence Support and Information)
403-266-1234
To report domestic violence or sexual violence: Calgary Police Service Non-Emergency Line
HELPING OTHERS
Let the other person know that you are a supportive, non-judgemental friend they can turn to whenever they need. Sometimes, this person may decide not to leave the relationship or reach out for formal help, and they will need you to continue to be there for them anyway. If the person is in immediate danger or has been a victim of a criminal offence you must report it to the police.
Listen
Believe
