Warning Signs
of Abuse
Abuse comes in many forms and can appear many ways. Warning signs are the red flags that abuse is happening. These are important to look for since many victims don’t report the abuse or seek help from others.
Physical Abuse
Bruises, cuts, marks, injuries, broken bones, black eyes, change in appearance, personality, habits, anxious, worried, makes excuses, timid, jumpy, sensitive to touch, isolated, heavy make-up, long clothing, scarves, sunglasses, missing school or work (to allow the bruises to heal)
Cyber / Technological Abuse
Being controlled through technology, no privacy, forced to share passwords, excessive or unwanted calls and texts, put on blast through SM, blackmailed with explicit photos or videos, isolated or cut off from online friends, not allowed to post on social media, etc.
Emotional / Verbal Abuse
Loss of self-esteem, depression, withdrawn, sad, crying, loss of autonomy, constantly putting down self, apologizes constantly, nervous, embarrassed, ashamed, timid, isolated, substance / alcohol abuse (to cope)
Mental / Psychological Abuse
Signs of jealousy, possessiveness, over-protective, clingy, isolated from family, friends, activities, jobs, hobbies, anxiety, paranoia, fearful, feeling threatened, gaslighting (aka mind-games / “crazy-making”), manipulated, afraid of partner, does anything to make them happy
Sexual Abuse
Change in appearance, personality, overly sexual or more reserved, sensitive to touch, lower self-esteem, self-doubt, constantly apologizes, crying, puts self down, fearful, angry, aggressive outbursts, cancels plans, self-harm, suicidal ideation