Domestic Violence

We all deserve to be safe. Domestic violence happens more than you think. Each day, there are 35 domestic violence calls made to the police in Colorado Springs.

What abuse looks like: 

  1.  Your partner has  hit you, beat you, or strangled you in the past.
  1.  Your partner is  possessive. They check up on you constantly wondering where you are; they get mad at you for hanging out with certain people if you don’t do what they say.
  1.  Your partner is  jealous. (A small amount of jealousy is normal and healthy) however, if they accuse you of being unfaithful or isolate you from family or friends, that means the jealousy has gone too far.
  1.  Your partner  puts you down. They attack your intelligence, looks, mental health, or capabilities. They blame you for all of their violent outbursts and tell you nobody else will want you if you leave.
  1.  Your partner  threatens you or your family.
  1.  Your partner  physically and sexually abuses you. If they EVER push, shove, or hit you, or make you have sex with them when you don’t want to, they are abusing you  (even if it doesn’t happen all the time).
  1.  Any tendencies towards domestic violence/abuse in courtship period shouldn’t be overlooked. Women should end potentially future abusing relationship BECAUSE untreated these errant abusing tendencies will only worsen with the stress of marriage, family and job.  

What to do if you are being abused:

The first step is to approach your partner about getting counseling on own or through a church. If partner refuses, contact an agency such as TESSA Colorado Springs, tessacs.org, 719.633.1462 .

If you are in a crisis or need immediate help, dial 911 or call the crisis line in Colorado Springs: 719-633-3819. Services are provided in English or Español. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is also an option: (800) 799-SAFE (7233) or TTY (800) 787−3224.

Domestic Violence Programs in Colorado offer some or all of these services:

  • A caring, listening ear.  People who can listen and help you sort out options.
  • Advocacy services.  Specially trained advocates who can help with safety planning. Advocates can help you get information about welfare, CPS, disability services, immigration, housing, employment protections, and more.
  • Emergency shelter  or other safe lodging on a temporary basis.
  • Housing Options. Longer term housing options for individuals and families
  • Emergency Financial Support.  Advocates can help victims apply for  VOCA Emergency Funds .
  • Support groups . Groups for children, youth, and adults.
  • Legal advocacy.  Information about protection orders and other civil matters. Most programs do not provide legal counsel, but may be able to refer you to free or low-cost attorneys.

How to help someone who is being abused:

  • Believe their story.
  • Tell the victim that they do not deserve abuse.
  • Know your local resources.
  • Encourage the victim to contact a crisis line.

If you or someone you know is being abused, talk to your Gorman Medical provider about your concerns. Your provider can help you document the abuse and steer you in the right direction for help.