The most important thing to know about intimate partner violence is that, unless interrupted, it increases over time. The cycle of violence includes times when things are better, followed by increasingly controlling and/or violent attacks.
Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) can happen to anyone in a romantic relationship, whether dating, living together, or married. It can happen to both rich and poor, and to women, men and non-binary people. It can happen regardless of the gender or sexual orientation of the partners. Intimate Partner Violence happens across all cultures and religions. It can happen at any time in a relationship, and even after a relationship ends. In fact, the most dangerous time in intimate partner violence is in the four months after a relationship ends; knowing this can help keep you safer.
It is common in IPV to break up and get back together a few times. Service providers know this is part of the cycle, so you don’t need to feel bad if you go back for help more than once or even several times.
Your partner may try to tell you are overreacting or “crazy.” The stress of experiencing IPV may cause you to be emotionally upset. It is not your fault, and you are not crazy.
Experiencing IPV can take a serious toll on your health physically, emotionally and mentally. Some people may experience anxiety and/or depression. Others may self-harm, use substances, and/or experience suicidal thoughts. These are all understandable responses to IPV. If IPV is happening to you, you’re not alone. Seeking help can help you stay safer and figure out what you want to do next.
The most important thing to know about intimate partner violence is that, unless interrupted, it increases over time. The cycle of violence includes times when things are better, followed by increasingly controlling and/or violent attacks.
Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) can happen to anyone in a romantic relationship, whether dating, living together, or married. It can happen to both rich and poor, and to women, men and non-binary people. It can happen regardless of the gender or sexual orientation of the partners. Intimate Partner Violence happens across all cultures and religions. It can happen at any time in a relationship, and even after a relationship ends. In fact, the most dangerous time in intimate partner violence is in the four months after a relationship ends; knowing this can help keep you safer.
It is common in IPV to break up and get back together a few times. Service providers know this is part of the cycle, so you don’t need to feel bad if you go back for help more than once or even several times.
Your partner may try to tell you are overreacting or “crazy.” The stress of experiencing IPV may cause you to be emotionally upset. It is not your fault, and you are not crazy.
Experiencing IPV can take a serious toll on your health physically, emotionally and mentally. Some people may experience anxiety and/or depression. Others may self-harm, use substances, and/or experience suicidal thoughts. These are all understandable responses to IPV. If IPV is happening to you, you’re not alone. Seeking help can help you stay safer and figure out what you want to do next.
