There are some signs to look for in a relationship that could mean it is unhealthy. You may be happy some of the time, but if you feel scared or uncomfortable at any point during the relationship, it may be time to think about whether to continue with it.
There are many different forms of abuse, not just physical but emotional and mental. Threats or intimidation can be just as serious as physically hurting someone.
There are some signs that your relationship could be abusive. Your partner may:
- physically hurt you when they are angry
- get angry, jealous or suspicious when you see other people such as family or friends
- check your texts and emails
- tell you what where you can go, who you can see and what you can wear
- pressurise you to have sex or do things you don’t want to do
- threaten you, call you names or put you down
- pressure you into taking or sharing intimate photos of yourself
- criticise the way you look
- take your money or possessions
- say they’re sorry and promise they’ll change
If someone is doing one or more of these things to you, you should get some support. You are not to blame and you are not alone.
It is important to remember that being under the influence of drugs or alcohol is not an excuse for someone to be abusive to their partner.
Sex should be something you enjoy together, and that you are comfortable with. Your partner should not try and persuade you to do something sexual that you don’t want to do. You must fully agree to any sexual act – even when you’ve had sex with them before.
There is also some information available online about abuse