Domestic Violence

Domestic violence destroys lives, families and communities. Domestic violence is defined as the attempt to dominate a family member, partner or ex-partner either physically or psychologically. Direct physical violence or any unwanted contact, rape, indirect violence toward objects and animals, as well as verbal threats, insults and social control, all are considered domestic violence.

Domestic violence and abuse are more prevalent than most people realize. Almost everyone has known at least one person who has been directly affected by domestic violence, and the numbers have been continually on the incline, especially violence toward women. In fact, statistics show that one in three women has been physically abused by a domestic partner at some point in their lives.

Women who sustain emotional scarring from domestic violence not only fail to live normal lives, they often turn to dangerous addictions to escape their pain. Prescription and illicit street drugs, as well as alcohol provide a temporary emotional "high" that domestic violence victims rarely feel on a day to day basis. Obviously, this only complicates problems.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of domestic violence, help is just a phone call away. Please call the Women's Center for Healthy Living toll-free at 1-800-391-4309. We are standing by day and night and all calls are confidential.

Warning Signs of Domestic Violence

If you suspect that someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, look for the following signs:

• Depression and anxiety- Depression and anxiety are perhaps, the first and most common warning signs of domestic abuse. It is not at all uncommon for abused women to be placed on anti-depressants or anti-anxiety drugs as a means of coping with this problem.
• Difficulty making decisions- The fear tactics used by abusers usually leave the victims scared to make the day to day decisions in their lives.
• Mood swings- Frequent and sudden mood swings are extremely common in women who have been abused. Out of fear, most victims bottle up their emotions and then when they are in a "safe" environment, they unleash those feelings.
• Insomnia- At some point, abused women usually develop at least a mild case of insomnia. Some women also experience nightmares, which only exacerbates the problem.
• Isolation- Victims of domestic violence commonly become isolated from friends and family early on in the abuse cycle. Outgoing women that suddenly turn shy and no longer join in on the activities they once enjoyed is a huge red flag.
• Paranoia and unexplained fear- These are most commonly the last warning signs that victims of domestic violence abuse exhibit and usually increase as the abuse worsens.

Recovering From Domestic Violence and Abuse

The Women's Center for Healthy Living, located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has specialized programs aimed at treating women's issues such as domestic violence, sexual abuse and eating disorders, as well as any accompanying drug or alcohol addiction problems. Our licensed and certified team of professionals treats every patient as an individual, focusing on developing every woman's self-esteem, independence and self-worth. It is a caring, supportive environment for healing the body, mind and spirit.

If you or someone you know has ever suffered domestic violence, now is the time to seek help. The pain will not just go away; but you don't have to suffer in silence any longer. The trained professionals at the Women's Center for Healthy Living can help you take your life back. You have the right to be happy. Put the pain of domestic violence behind you by taking the first step today. Contact The Women's Center for Healthy Living toll-free at 1-800-391-4309 for 24 hour information. All calls are confidential.