United to Give Voice & Empowerment to the Silenced
Intimate Partner Violence Resource Hub
Everyone Deserves a Gentle Touch
Everyone Deserves a Gentle Touch
What is Domestic Violence:
Domestic violence occurs when an individual consistently seeks to exert power and control over their partner through various forms of abuse, including physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. This harmful behavior disrupts the gentle touch principles of love, kindness, affection, and trust within an intimate relationship, often leading to lasting harm and trauma. In the United States, one in four women and one in seven men have experienced some form of severe violence from an intimate partner.
What is Original Abuse/Understanding is the first step to healing:
Original abuse, also known as domestic violence or intimate partner violence, encompasses a pattern of behavior in any relationship used to gain or maintain power and control over another, which stands in stark contrast to the gentle touch principles of love, kindness, affection, and trust. Understanding this cycle of abuse is the first step toward breaking free from its grip and seeking healing and support.
What is Emotional/
Verbal Abuse
Emotional or verbal abuse encompasses behaviors that belittle, degrade, or manipulate a partner, causing emotional harm and distress, thus violating the gentle touch principles of love, kindness, affection, and trust. It can manifest through insults, gaslighting, and controlling behavior, creating a toxic environment that undermines one's sense of self-worth and emotional well-being.
You are Not Crazy
It's crucial for individuals experiencing domestic abuse to recognize that they are not alone and that their feelings and experiences are valid. They are not imagining things. Gaslighting, a form of emotional manipulation, can make victims doubt their feelings or make it seem like they are just imagining things, but seeking support and understanding can help reaffirm their sense of self and regain clarity.
List of Unhealthy Behaviors:
Unhealthy behaviors in a relationship may include principles like intimidation, isolation, financial control, and coercive actions that seek to exert power and dominance over you or even over a close friend or relative. These behaviors can lead to fear, trauma, and a sense of entrapment. It is very important to recognize and understand when this is happening.
What Love Should Feel Like:
Love should feel like a safe haven, where one's voice is heard, where emotions are respected, and your well-being is valued. It involves mutual respect, empathy, and support, fostering an environment where individuals can thrive and grow without fear of harm or coercion.
National Awarness Connections
Discover the ongoing national initiatives aimed at raising awareness about intimate partner violence throughout the year, encompassing significant observances such as National Stalking Awareness Month in January, Teen Dating Violence Awareness & Prevention Month in February, Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April, and the impactful Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October.
These efforts underscore the collective commitment to addressing and combating intimate partner violence in its various forms, fostering a culture of support, understanding, and empowerment.
Steps to Create a Safety Plan:
Well, picture this: it's like having a compass in the midst of life's unexpected storms, providing a clear sense of direction and much-needed clarity. Safety planning involves creating a roadmap for individuals and families to ensure everyone's well-being in the face of potential abuse or violence. While it's especially crucial for those enduring relationship abuse, it can also be a game-changer in situations like stalking, harassment, or sexual assault. The key? Don't underestimate anything. If your gut tells you something's off, trust that instinct and take proactive steps to protect yourself.
Wondering why you should put together a safety plan?
01.
Identifying Warning Signs
Recognizing specific behaviors or situations that often precede abusive or violent behavior.
02.
Designating Safe Spaces
Identifying trusted locations where the individual can seek refuge, such as a friend or family member's home, a shelter, or a public place.
03.
Developing a Code Word
Creating a discreet signal to alert others of the need for assistance without alerting the abuser.
04.
Creating an Emergency Bag
Preparing a bag with essential items like clothing, identification, medication, and money in case a swift departure becomes necessary.
05.
Establishing Boundaries
Clearly defining and communicating boundaries with the abuser to maintain personal safety.
06.
Contacting Local Law Enforcement
Establishing a plan for reaching out to law enforcement if the situation escalates.
07.
Seeking Help From Professionals
Reaching out to resources such as domestic violence hotlines, victim advocates, or counselors for guidance and support.
ABOUT
The Graced Perspective
At our core, we stand as a voice for the silenced, offering support and empowerment by providing resources to those affected by relationship abuse. Additionally, we extend our commitment to providing resources to families and friends as well.
Our mission encompasses two initiatives: the "Road to Independence" driving program for survivors of domestic violence and the "Gentle Touch Writing Workshop." We are committed to empowering individuals to surpass perceived limits and achieve the extraordinary.
