Abuse often begins with behaviors that may feel confusing, unsettling, or easy to dismiss. Over time, these behaviors can become more controlling or more dangerous.
Recognizing the warning signs early can help you better understand what may be happening and consider steps to protect yourself.
If several of the situations below feel familiar, it may be a sign that a relationship has become unhealthy or unsafe.
- Makes you feel uncomfortable, intimidated, or afraid
- Uses physical force during arguments
- Frequently puts you down, humiliates you, or makes you feel worthless
- Constantly checks where you are or what you are doing
- Discourages or prevents you from seeing family or friends
- Shows extreme jealousy about your time with others
- Uses or threatens you with guns, knives, or other weapons
- Makes you feel afraid to disagree or say “no”
- Controls household money or refuses access to needed funds
- Tells you that you are a bad parent or threatens to take your children away
- Controls where you go, who you see, or what you are allowed to do
- Prevents you from working or going to school
- Throws objects, punches walls, or destroys things during arguments
- Pressures or forces you into sexual activity you do not want
- Threatens to harm your pets or destroy your belongings
- Threatens to hurt themselves if you try to end the relationship
- Pressures you to use drugs or alcohol
- Has a pattern of unhealthy or abusive past relationships
- Loved ones have expressed concern for your safety
If you recognize several of these warning signs and feel concerned about your safety, you are not alone. You can call Hotline Outer Banks at (252) 473-3366 to speak with a trained advocate. Conversations are confidential, and you may remain anonymous if you choose. Our advocates can listen, help you explore options, and talk through next steps that feel right for your situation.
You can also learn more about what to expect by reading our blog post titled "What Happens When Someone Calls Hotline".
