Dating Violence does not only include physical abuse, but sexual, emotional, and psychological abuse as well. Below are some questions for you to ask yourself to help understand if you are in a violent relationship:
1. Does your partner get very jealous when you spend time with other friends, especially those of the opposite sex?
2. Are you afraid to disagree with your partner?
3. Does your partner accuse you of cheating on him or her?
4. Do you make excuses for your partners behavior?
5. Do you feel you must often choose between your partner and your friends/family?
6. Do you feel bad about yourself when you are with your partner?
7. Are you afraid that if you break up with your partner, someone might get hurt?
8. Have you been called demeaning names by your partner?
9. Have you been shaken, punched, beaten, pushed, kicked, bitten, slapped by your partner?
10. Have you been denied medical treatement by your partner?
11. Have you been forced into sex or sexual contacts that you do not want by your partner?
If you answered YES to one of more of these questions, you may be a victim of domestic violence. In addition, your abuser may be doing things to you that you don't think are abuse - but they are.
Call our 24 hour on-call, confidential crisis line at 406-782-8511 to discuss these questions and more.
If You Are A Victim
First, we want you to know that the domestic violence or sexual assault in your life is not your fault!
Safe Space is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week all year long with trained advocates that can help you to decide what steps are safe and best for you. We are here to support your decisions and answer your questions. By calling our crisis line at 406-782-8511, you are able to request any of our services we provide.
There are many ways to regain the control of your own life and to take steps to be free from abuse. Our advocates do not judge you or demand what you should do. Instead, we will listen, provide advice and referrals when requested and appropriate, can offer in person assistance at the hospital and to file a police report and provide emergency services such as shelter.
Our number one concern is your safety. To set up a safety plan, review the information on this website or contact our crisis line.
Remember, abuse can come in many ways - physical, emotional, sexual, and neglect. Abusers may experience legal issues (fine, jail time), loss of family and friends, problems at work or loss of their job, and more violent relationships. Many people who tend to use violence saw or suffered abuse as a child, abuse alcohol or use drugs, have low self esteem, need to feel powerful, have wide mood swings, blame others and have unrealistic expectations. Victims may feel trapped by fear, lack of money, low self esteem and shame, feelings of isolation, and/or a desire to "make it better."\
Call our crisis line at (406) 782-8511, or if it is an immediate emergency, dial 911.
Depression
Depression is very common and treatable. You are not alone!
SYMPTOMS Feeling sad or empty Loss of interest Loss of sexual desire Feelings of self blame Neglect of appearance and responsibilities Poor memory and/or easily distracted Self mutilation Suicidal thoughts or actions
