UNDERSTANDING ABUSE

As an abused woman, you may hurting so much that it’s hard to cope, let alone take a stand against the abuse.

This section is designed to help you understand abuse a little better. The more you understand about abuse, the more strength you’ll have to take a stand against it and overcome it.

Remember, you have the right to protect yourself and your children from abuse. In fact, it is your responsibility to do so. Ultimately, no one but you has the power to make choices that will give you and your children a better future.

Click on TYPES OF ABUSE for information on different kinds of abuse and examples of each.

If you aren’t sure you are being abused, click on IS THIS ABUSE? for a checklist that will help you answer this question. Or, call our crisis line and talk to a counsellor for insight into your situation.

If you feel like your life is a roller coaster, with abusive times followed by wonderful times in a recurring pattern, click on CYCLES OF ABUSE.

Abuse affects women in all age, racial, ethnic, social and economic groups. MYTHS AND REALITY provides a reality check about abuse, helping you to educate yourself and others on this topic.

FAQs provides answers to frequently asked questions about abuse.

TESTIMONIALS by women who have overcome abuse will touch your heart and give you hope about the possibility of better times ahead.

Are you a child who has seen your mother abused? Click on JUST FOR KIDS.

Are you a teenager impacted by abuse? Click on TEENS.

Friends and family members of abused women: Click on FRIENDS AND FAMILY for tips on how to help.

Co-workers, union representatives and employers: Click on CO-WORKERS, UNIONS AND EMPLOYERS to find out what your roles can be.