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If you're worried about your relationship...

Abuse can happen in a relationship between a man and a woman, between two men, or between two women and can happen at any age. It might not be physical abuse  - it might be emotional abuse, sexual abuse, financial abuse, or psychological abuse. This is never OK.

The Hideout put together a checklist to help you think about your relationship:

  • Does your boy/girlfriend ever go through your phone to check who you've been talking to or texting?
  • Does you boy/girlfriend often criticise what you're wearing, or tell you what to wear?
  • Do your friends tell you they don't like your boy/girlfriend?
  • Do you find yourself spending more time with your boy/girlfriend than with your friends, or does he/she tell you not to see your friends?
  • Does your boy/girlfriend hit, kick or slap you?
  • Has your boy/girlfriend ever forced you to have sex with him/her, or made you feel guilty if you don't?
  • Does your boy/girlfriend ever threaten you, especially if you don't want to see him/her, or talk about breaking up?
  • Does your boy/girlfriend criticise your body, or the way you look?

If you've answered yes to any of these questions, it may be that you're in an unhealthy relationship, and need to think about talking to someone or getting some help.

Remember:

  • Trust your judgement - if something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't
  • You're okay on your own. You're a wonderful person, who deserves a wonderful partner - you don't have to settle for one who's just okay, or is hurting you or making you feel bad.
  • You exist in a whole big world of family, friends, work, college... If you find your world narrowing down to just your partner, something's probably not right.

For help visit:

This is abuse - has lots of information about abuse in teenage relationships and has links to other websites and helplines.

The Hideout - has information about domestic violence and how to take action

Broken Rainbow - offers support to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people experiencing domestic violence. You can also call 0300 999 5428 (Open Mon 2-8pm, Wed 10am-1pm, Thu 2-8pm)

If you are in immediate danger call 999