Caleigh Montoya, Staff Writer
Domestic violence roots itself in wanting power and control over your partner. Insecurity, childhood trauma, and / or economic hardship are all possible grounds for domestic violence to begin. Signs of abuse include jealousy, cruelty to animals or children, verbal abuse, intense and sudden mood swings, threats of physical punishment, and unrealistic expectations. Warning signs of someone who may become abusive are tight relationship roles, controlling money or housing, verbal abuse, and arguments escalating intensely.
Victims of domestic violence also present symptoms. Family and friends who may be experiencing domestic violence may become more reserved, depressed, and present other attributes that are unlike themselves. If you have already had suspicions of violence going on with someone you know, these signs could be confirmation.
When wanting to help a victim of domestic violence, make time for them, make them feel heard, lose judgment, validate their feelings, and try to find outside support and resources to strengthen their recovery. If you are finding yourself questioning or fully knowing that you are in an unhealthy and possibly violent relationship, leaving can be challenging. You are not to blame and deserve to be treated with love and respect.
Some tips to handle domestic violence situations would be to come up with safety plans, protect your privacy, talk to a close friend or loved one, and find a safe community to speak about what is happening in your relationship.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please use the following resources, provided by Denver Health:
National Domestic Violence Hotline
800-799-7233
Rose Andom Center in Denver, CO
720-337-4400
PorchLight
720-853-8850
https://www.porchlightfjc.org/
Gateway Domestic Violence Services
303-343-1851
SafeHouse Denver
303-318-9989