10/12/2026
๐ KNOW THE SIGNS: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS ๐
Abuse isn't always physical, and it doesn't always happen all at once.
Domestic violence can involve emotional abuse, threats, intimidation, manipulation, financial control, sexual violence, and physical harm.
๐ฉ Understanding the 4 Stages of the Cycle of Abuse
1๏ธโฃ TENSION-BUILDING
โ ๏ธ Arguments, anger, jealousy, and controlling behaviors increase.
Communication becomes difficult.
The person experiencing abuse may feel like they're "walking on eggshells."
They may change their behavior to avoid upsetting their partner.
2๏ธโฃ VIOLENT INCIDENT
๐ Abuse occurs as the person causing harm uses intimidation, violence, or other tactics to maintain power and control.
Physical, verbal, emotional, or sexual abuse may occur.
Threats, humiliation, and intimidation may escalate.
The person experiencing abuse may feel frightened, helpless, or trapped.
3๏ธโฃ RECONCILIATION (HONEYMOON PHASE)
๐น The person causing harm may attempt to repair the relationship.
They apologize, give gifts, or promise to change.
They may blame stress, alcohol, or other circumstances.
These promises can create hope that the abuse will stop.
4๏ธโฃ CALM PERIOD
๐๏ธ Things may temporarily seem peaceful.
The abusive behavior may stop for a while.
The relationship may appear to return to normal.
Without meaningful change, abusive behaviors may return.
๐ IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER:
Not every abusive relationship follows these four stages. Some have no honeymoon or calm period. Abuse is never the survivor's fault, and no one deserves to live in fear.
LOVE SHOULD NOT HURT. LOVE SHOULD NOT CONTROL. LOVE SHOULD NOT CREATE FEAR.
๐ NEED HELP OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO DOES?
National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Text START to 88788
๐ www.thehotline.org
If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 in the United States.
๐ Break the silence. Recognize the signs. Support survivors.