Many times we take for granted that everyone understands what is a healthy relationship. It can be difficult to realize that even young adults and teens can be in an abusive relationship.
Dating should be a fun part of growing up. Hanging out with friends, learning how to maintain relationships, even beginning to explore intimacy at a pace that works for both partners.
Date Strong is an education program that Family Haven brings to Forsyth County high schools to educate young people on what healthy dating and relationships are, and are not.
Regardless if you are a teen, young adult, collage student or beyond small things that seem innocent at first can turn into unhealthy habits.
I feel Safe
I feel Comfortable
Listens to me
Supports all I want in life
Is Truthful with me
Respects me
Makes me Laugh
Respects my Family
Accepts me as I am
I feel afraid
I feel uncomfortable
I don’t matter
Tries to control what I do
Keeps things from me
Is sexually demanding
Makes me cry
Prevents me from seeing my family
Embarrasses my in front of others
When you look at the highlighted words in both of the lists, pick which relationship you would want to be in. The words in the Healthy list are qualities of a positive relationship. If you recognize any one of the words in the Unhealthy list in you or someone else’s relationship you, or they, may be a victim of abuse.
What to do if you are in a relationship and you are afraid to leave because of fear, first recognize that no matter how hard you try you will not make the abuse stop. Speak to your parents, your school counselor, your pastor. Surround yourself with supportive friends.
Add the ATTAIN app that will help you in an emergency situation.
Family Haven encourages any organization that would like more information for their website to Teen Dating (Date Strong) or other domestic violence education to contact: info@familyhavenga.org.