Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence
- You should never feel threatened, intimidated or scared in your relationship. If you do, that is domestic violence.
- Domestic violence is abuse, or the threat of abuse, by a current or former partner. It can happen to anyone, but some people — including immigrants, those with disabilities and those who identify as LGBTQ — may be more likely to experience it.
- Domestic violence is also called intimate partner violence. No matter what you call it, it is not OK.
In 2016, almost 500,000 New Yorkers (ages 18 and above) reported that they had ever been physically hurt by a partner at some time.
Signs of Abuse
Abuse can be physical, sexual, mental, financial or emotional.
An abusive partner may:
- Call you names and insult you
- Isolate you from family and friends
- Stop you from using birth control or condoms
- Force you to have sex
- Threaten you, your children and/or your pets
These are just a few examples. If you are experiencing any of them, or know of someone who is, help is available.
An abusive partner may also show you love and care. Even if your partner is not abusive all the time, any amount of abuse is harmful.
Domestic Violence and Your Health
Domestic violence affects your physical and mental health, and the well-being of those around you.
It can make it harder for you to care for yourself, and you may not see a doctor regularly for important tests or immunizations.
Physical injuries, such as broken bones, head injuries, bruises and cuts
Emotional distress, such as depression, anxiety and insomnia
Poor pregnancy outcomes and sexually transmitted infections
It is important to get help as soon as you can.
Get Help
You are not alone. It might be hard, but there are many resources available if you are in an abusive situation.
- If you are in immediate danger, call 911. If you are not in immediate danger:
- Visit NYC Hope at nyc.gov/nychope for helpful resources, including a list of NYC Family Justice Centers — there is a center in every borough.
- Call the City’s Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-621-4673, or call 311 and ask for the hotline. Assistance is available in multiple languages, 24 hours a day, to help with:
- Temporary housing
- Safety planning
- Counseling and other social services
- A court order of protection
- Make a list of trusted people you can call in an emergency.