Community Corner
Abusive Relationships Don't Go Away On their Own
There are resources women can turn to for getting out of an abusive relationship before it becomes dangerous--or worse.
In light of the that leaves two children without a mother, and a father in jail, it's time to take a closer look at how a woman can leave an abusive relationship before it evolves into a more dangerous or life-threatening situation.
If you're in an abusive relationship, your self-esteem is taking just as many hits as you are. If you find yourself rationalizing that your partner's attacks, (whether verbal or physical) stem from intense caring or jealous passion, you owe to it to yourself to seek a better understanding of how you should be treated in a relationship.
If you feel you deserve the abuse because you come from a family where everything from verbal cut-downs to physical violence are just part of the daily routine, you have been missing out on how it feels to be involved in a healthy family or relationship atmosphere.
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There are many resources and opportunities to help you take that first step to a better life. The professionals and volunteers at these resources understand the intricacies of what you are going through. You and your children and even your pets can find relief and get on a safe road to a peaceful life.
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Emotional abuse is often the most damaging form of abuse inflicted on a woman. "Verbal and emotional abuse attacks a woman's identity," says Abba House Founder Chris Sharp. "We help women find freedom from life-controlling problems." Sharp explains that the complexities of verbal and emotional abuse require abused women to surround themselves with a new lifestyle that remodels respectful, loving behavior from others. The Abba House provides addicted, emotionally abused or otherwise "broken" women with a 15-month ministry that helps them gain a new life, forgiveness and piece of mind through God's love. Call 678-208-2000 for getting started on a healthy path to emotional healing.
From temporary emergency shelter or counseling, to getting the help you need to file a temporary protective order, the Forsyth County Family Haven is a continual resource for helping families (including children) find safety and peace. You might be surprised at how far shelters have come since their inception. The facility provides a home-environment that models comfort and all the necessary means to care for yourself and children--without having to worry about being abused! There is also a 24-hour crisis hotline you can call for confidential crisis counseling: 770-887-1121.
With this online resource, you'll find help in deciphering the laws pertaining to abuse (including the laws on your partner's ability to own a gun), access to individuals with knowledge on family law, county-by-county contact information on where to turn for immediate help and quizzes to take on determining the waring signs and symptoms of every type of abuse.
All too often, pets become pawns in abusive environments. At no cost to you, Ahimsa House provides a temporary environment for your pet during your journey to safety. Ahimsa (the words means nonviolence) House provides your pet with peaceful days and nights in a safe foster care or boarding facility. If you're having trouble getting your pet out of the house, a law enforcement officer can help. You'll have piece of mind and your pet will be out of harm's way as you heal from abuse. Pets are reunited with their owners once everyone is safe. Ahimsa was awarded Rescue Organization of the Year by Pedigree in 2005. Call the 24-hour crisis hotline at 404-452-6248 for more information.
Bell-Forsyth Victim Witness Assistance:
This program offers crime victims and witnesses emotional support and guidance through the aftermath of a crime. The program also provides guidance through the details of the criminal justice systems as it pertains to an individual victim's case. Call 770-205-2268.
Remember, any form of abuse can cause you to behave in ways that can escalate into addiction, depression, hopelessness and deep-seeded desperation for the wrong kind of attention.
You are worth much more than the toll abuse takes on your soul and identity.
One of the most effective means of realizing your own worth is to seek help through the resources that are dedicated to helping you escape the complicated grip of abuse.
