College Health: Violence/Abuse

Going to College and Staying Healthy:
Violence/Abuse in Relationships

What if I am in an abusive or violent relationship?

Abuse in a relationship can be both physical and mental. Your partner should never threaten you or hurt you, and should never threaten to harm or harm any of your possessions or people that are important to you. You should never feel afraid of your partner or controlled by him or her. Your partner should never make you feel worthless or bad about yourself. If your partner does any of these things, it is time to get help and get out of the relationship. If your partner abuses you, he or she probably will never stop. You will be much better off without an abusive partner! You deserve to be treated with love and respect by your partner.

If you are in an abusive relationship, you should talk to an adult that you trust, someone from your college counseling service, or a domestic abuse hotline. These people can help you deal with your concerns. If you ever feel that you are in danger when you are with your partner or after you have broken up with your partner, call 911 and explain your situation. If you break up with your partner and fear that he/she may come after you, stay at a safe place where he can't contact you and have someone else take messages from him. You can talk to the police about what you can do to legally protect yourself from abuse.

Check out these other College Health Guides:

Knowing About My Health Before I Go to College

First Aid Supplies to Take with Me to College

Health Services and Health Care Providers

Staying Healthy at College

Some Common Health Problems at College

Resources: Hotlines/Websites/Books