Someone watching?
Hit the ESC key at any time to hide this site. Privacy Tips
Call 1-844-762-8483
7NATIVE

Or Text 24/7

If you send a text, you will immediately receive a response notification that you will be texted back from a secondary number.
Standard text rates may apply.
Your information will be kept anonymous and confidential.

Who can be Abused?

Anyone can find themselves in an abusive relationship.

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

If you are being abused by your partner, you may feel confused, afraid, angry and/or trapped. You may also blame yourself for what is happening.

All of these emotions are normal responses to abuse. But no matter what others might say, you are never responsible for your partner’s abusive actions. Domestic violence and dating violence are not caused by alcohol or drugs, stress, anger management or provocation. Abuse is a personal choice.

Whatever the circumstances, no one ever deserves to be abused.

If you are unsure whether you are being abused, visit our Identify Abuse page to learn more about abusive behaviors or read our article on abusive red flags to watch for. It’s not always easy to tell if a relationship is unhealthy or abusive.

supportive family supportive family

We understand.

Get Help

More Articles About domestic violence

Elders Often Suffer Abuse In Silence

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

Featured Article
Colonization and Domestic Violence

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

Featured Article
How Do You Heal?
During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, StrongHearts Native Helpline is dedicated to eradicating domestic and sexual violence by utilizing a core...
Featured Article
Elders and Domestic Violence

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

Am I being abused?

List of behaviors that are abusive.

Escalation of Abuse

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

Safety During a Violent Encounter

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

Domestic Violence Myths

Test your knowledge about domestic violence.

Pet Abuse

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

5 Types of DV that are often Overlooked

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

What is Domestic Violence?

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

Featured Article
Why Do People Abuse?

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

Domestic Violence and Firearms

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

Alcohol and Abuse

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

The Myth of Mutual Abuse

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

Mutual Abuse Is A Fallacy

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

PTSD Effects on Children Who Witness Domestic Violence

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.

Domestic Violence and Native Americans with Disabilities

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

Creating a Separation Plan and Preparedness Kit

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.

Suicide and Domestic Violence

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

Pregnancy and Domestic Violence

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

Holiday Financial 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.

How will the expansion of 5G impact Native American and Alaska Native domestic violence victims?

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.

Domestic Violence and Strangulation

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