Identify Abuse

Uncover the roots of Native American domestic, dating and sexual violence.

Choosing to seek a shelter may be a part of your individual safety plan.

Everyone deserves to feel safe in their relationship. Take the quiz to see if your relationship is healthy.

We are called upon to wear red to acknowledge thousands of young women and girls who go missing each year.

"It is unacceptable when elders suffer abuse and neglect at the hands of those who should protect them." ~Lori Jump, CEO, StrongHearts Native Helpline.

Understanding types of love, knowing how to identify the red flags of romance and taking a serious approach are good measures to take when navigating a new relationship.

The work of an advocate is steeped in trauma. Yet, the desire to help others - is as important to them as it is to their contacts.

There are several types of abuse. People in abusive relationships often experience more than one type of abuse.

Feel like you're walking on eggshells? Read about more signs of emotional abuse here.

Abuse isn't always physical. Read more about the different types of abuse.

Sexual coercion is the practice of persuading someone to engage in unwanted sexual activity by using force, intimidation or threats.

Your teen years are a time for figuring out who you are and what you enjoy, including your sexuality. Experimentation is common, sexual violence is not.

Using alcohol can strain a relationship but it is not the cause of domestic violence.

List of behaviors that are abusive.

For Native male victim-survivors, there can be an added layer of silence and stigma in seeking help.

Store the preparedness kit outside of the home either with a trusted neighbor, friend or relative or keep it in a secret location where you can safely retrieve it.

The “perfect or ideal victim” narrative is a widespread phenomenon that causes harm.

Digital abuse is a tactic of domestic violence when abusers hurt, threaten or intimidate their partner through the use of cell phones, computers and social media.

Test your knowledge about domestic violence.

Anyone can be in serious danger if their abusive partner has a gun.

An often overlooked group of Native American victim-survivors of domestic violence are those with disabilities.

Strangulation is one of the most serious forms of physical abuse.

Explore how the tactics of intimate partner violence for older adults may look different than other age groups.

In most abusive relationships the tactics of an abusive partner will escalate over time.

Gaslighting happens when the abusive partner refuses to acknowledge their actions or role in the abuse.

You have the right to live your life free from violence and abuse.

Around the holidays, financial abuse may look a little different. The additional stress of the holidays may affect your decisions. Financial abuse is just one tactic of domestic violence.

In an abusive relationship, some partners may force their partner into unwanted sexual activity as a means of control.

Why does a victim stay with their abuser? How can you help?

The end of 3G will widen the gap between higher-income and low-income individuals who can’t afford the upgrade to 5G compatible devices and other smart 5G technology.

Learn how to recognize the signs of human trafficking and sharing information about resources available to victim-survivors and their families.

Taking responsibility for your behavior is the first step. Change is possible, however, requires a deep commitment which many find challenging.

Recognize the long term mental health effects of colonization and the roots of domestic violence.

After a devastating sexual assault, how can you help your loved one begin their healing journey?

Read Michelle’s story to learn how a sense of false responsibility can impact a victim-survivor.

Be on the lookout for these red flags.

Information is a condensed version of Keeping Your Family Strong, a tip sheet from the Child Welfare Information Gateway, combined with tribally sourced information.

Beloved pets can be used to exert power and control over a victim-survivor.

Pregnancy can be a dangerous time for pregnant people in abusive relationships, putting them and their unborn child at heightened risk.

For Native American children who are exposed to domestic violence or even the threat of violence/abuse, there is an increased risk of psychological, social, emotional and behavioral problems.

The road to romance is full of swipes, texts, and turns. Navigating the dating world can be challenging especially for those exploring relationships for the first time.

Men can experience domestic, dating and sexual violence but may not always recognize the signs.

Examples of unhealthy and abusive behavior.

If a violent encounter seems imminent and unavoidable, there are a few options to consider to keep you safe.

Learn more about the issues Tribal members may face when reporting domestic violence.

Dating should be full of new experiences that leave you feeling good about yourself and your partner.

A victim-survivor can develop mental health issues like depression over the course of the relationship, putting them at greater risk for suicide.

Setting boundaries is never a bad thing. It’s about protecting yourself and your relationships.

There are many myths around intimate partner violence, particularly around victims who identify as men

Two-Spirit refers to a gender role, not a sexual orientation, specific to Native American and Alaska Native peoples.

Voyeurism is an act of non-contact sexual violence.

It can be difficult to talk with someone who has experienced something as traumatic as sexual violence. But as a relative, your support can mean a lot to a victim-survivor.

Helpful self-care tips for isolation.

Consent only happens when both people voluntarily, explicitly, and enthusiastically agree to engage in sexual activity.

Examples of cultural and spiritual abuse tactics.

Knowing and understanding your options is vital. We can help you idenitify legal services.

Items to consider for parents who are experiencing domestic violence.

Domestic violence can happen to anyone regardless of age, disability, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or economic background.

Abusive people think they have the right to control and restrict their partners.