Signs of Abuse — Not an All-Inclusive List:

• Various injuries attributed to a “fall” or “accident”
• Clothing that doesn’t match the season (long sleeves in the summer); wearing heavy
  make-up or accessories that seem unusual
• References to her partner’s bad moods or temper
• Breaking appointments at the last minute or simply not showing up
• Being late or absent from work or quitting her job unexpectedly
• Speaking of her partner as if he’s significantly more important than she is

 Partner’s Behavior Often Offers Clues:

• Public criticism or belittling “jokes”
• Being overly jealous, “attentive,” or demanding
• Not delivering messages that you leave with him
• Trying to control her every move or making her account for her time
• Accusing her of having an affair
• Threatening suicide or murder — or attempting it
• Abusing the children emotionally, physically, or sexually
• Isolation — Keeping your friend away from her friends and family

Domestic Violence is a Complex Issue.
Learn more about the signs of abuse and the complexities of domestic violence by downloading the Power and Control Wheel.

Believe It. Help Change It. 
You can do something today to help victims of domestic violence, and you've taken the first step by visiting this website.  Browse the 10 Things You Can Do pages for specific ideas.

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How to Start a Conversation With a Victim

    1.     Tell her that you are worried.

    2.     Listen without judgment.

    3.    Believe her.

    4.     Tell her that she deserves to be treated better.

    5.     Refer her to the Kansas Crisis Hotline -- 
            (888) END-ABUSE -- and your local 
            domestic violence program.

    6.     Ask her how you can help. Remember that safety is her
            priority and she  knows what is best to keep herself and 
            her children safe.