Every person deserves to be treated with respect, love, and acceptance — especially from intimate partners. October is National Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, and we wanted to take the time to remind our community that escaping abuse is possible. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available right here in Central Virginia.
If you are in an active crisis, call 911 or the National Hotline.
Warning Signs of Domestic Violence
Recognizing an abusive situation is the first step in breaking the cycle of violence, and it’s important to remember that domestic violence isn’t always physical. Emotional and financial abuse can be incredibly harmful as well. If a partner is intimidating, threatening, or actively harming their significant other in any way, that is domestic abuse. Abusers will utilize various tactics to maintain power and control over their partners, and the early signs of those dynamics can be hard to spot. But by being aware of potential warning signs, victims themselves and their loved ones can take action more quickly.
Common Warning Signs
- Heightened Isolation. The victim may become increasingly isolated from friends and family. They might withdraw from social activities they once enjoyed.
- Controlling Behavior. Abusers will almost always display an excessive need for control over the victim’s actions. They may dictate what the victim can wear, whom they can talk to, or where they can go.
- Verbal and Emotional Abuse. Frequent insults, name-calling, and belittling comments are common in abusive relationships. The victim may feel constantly criticized and worthless.
- Jealousy and Possessiveness. The abuser may display extreme jealousy and suspicion, even when there is no cause for it. They might accuse the victim of infidelity without evidence. It’s become increasingly common for abusers to monitor their partners’ technology to “keep tabs” on their activity.
- Financial Control. The abuser may control the victim’s access to money, making them financially dependent. This control can extend to preventing the victim from working or pursuing education.
- Gaslighting. Gaslighting is when the abuser manipulates the victim into doubting their own perception of reality. They might deny abusive behavior or blame the victim for the abuse.
As the abuse escalates, victims may experience more overt forms of aggression.
- Threats and Intimidation. The use of threats, both verbal and non-verbal, to intimidate the victim is a warning sign. This can include threats of physical harm, harming loved ones, pets, or possessions.
- Destruction of Property. The abuser may throw, break, or otherwise destroy objects of their partner’s or in the vicinity of their partner.
- Physical Violence. Any form of physical aggression, such as pinching, pushing, slapping, or hitting, is a clear sign that the relationship is abusive. The victim may have unexplained injuries or wear concealing clothing to hide bruises.
- Sexual Coercion. Unwanted sexual advances, pressure for sex, or forcible sexual assault are red flags. Consent should always be respected in a healthy relationship.
As the abuse occurs, the abuser may downplay their actions, make excuses, or promise it won’t happen again. This can make it difficult for the victim to seek help. But no form of abuse is acceptable or deserved.
Remember, if you or someone you know is experiencing any of these warning signs, it’s essential to seek help and support. Domestic violence is never the fault of the victim, and there are organizations, hotlines, and professionals available to offer assistance with compassion and understanding.
Local Resources in Central Virginia
Whether you are in need of long-term housing, financial assistance, or someone to talk to, our community has resources available to victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Leaving an abusive situation is known to be the most dangerous time for victims, but it is possible to escape and heal. Read more below for organizations victims can turn to when they are ready to leave.
The YWCA of Central VA
The YWCA, located in Lynchburg, plays a vital role in supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse by providing a safe haven in times of crisis and a wide range of essential services. Through their dedicated programs and shelters, the YWCA offers refuge to those escaping abusive situations, offering them a secure environment to rebuild their lives. They provide counseling, legal assistance, and access to medical care, addressing both the emotional and practical needs of survivors.
Plus, the YWCA conducts outreach and educational initiatives to raise awareness about domestic abuse. By offering compassionate support, resources, and advocacy, the YWCA empowers survivors to break the cycle of abuse, fostering hope, healing, and a path towards a violence-free future.
Miriam’s House
Miriam’s House in Lynchburg, VA provides safe and stable shelter, including to individuals experiencing domestic abuse. Beyond immediate housing, they offer case management, which assists clients in setting and achieving personalized goals, including securing sustainable housing and stable employment. Their commitment to holistic care includes access to healthcare services, mental health support, substance abuse counseling, and life skills training.
Turning Point
Located in Roanoke, Turning Point is a center dedicated to helping victims and survivors of domestic violence. The program is run by the Salvation Army and offers a range of services including housing, counseling, and more.
Virginia Legal Aid
Virginia Legal Aid provides essential assistance to those facing domestic violence, helping them navigate the legal system and access the protection they need. Virginia Legal Aid can help victims obtain protective orders, secure custody and visitation rights, and pursue divorce or separation from their abusers.
How Community Access Network Can Help
Leaving an abusive situation is scary and overwhelming, but we’re here to help in any way we can through partnerships with local organizations and even in-house services. If you need medical treatment, we are here for you. While we encourage anyone in a life-threatening scenario to call 911 or go to the emergency room, we will help our patients in any way we can. We offer walk-in appointments, and our staff is here to listen and point you to resources that may be helpful for you. We have on-site case managers available to answer questions in a safe, discreet environment.
If you would like to schedule an appointment, please call us today, or reach out to any of the following organizations for more information on leaving abusive relationships.
Get Help
For anonymous, confidential help available 24/7, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY).
You can also reach out to the YWCA via phone at 888-528-1041.