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Being hurt, threatened, or controlled by a partner or family member

Also called: Domestic violence, abuse

If someone is hurting, threatening, or controlling you, you deserve to be safe. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788. Call 911 if you're in danger.

Common causesPartner or family abuse
Usually serious?Yes
Get checked ifAlways
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide or in crisis? Call or text 988.Being hurt or threatened at home? National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233.Help with alcohol or drug use: SAMHSA Helpline, 1-800-662-4357.

Overview

Abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual, or financial.

Help is confidential.

When to get medical care

Call 911You're in danger now.
Get care todayInjuries.
See a doctor soonFeeling unsafe.

Causes

Abuse is never the victim's fault.

OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause being hurt, threatened, or controlled by a partner or family member. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

  • Unsafe relationship or abuseSee a doctor if it doesn't get better

    Being hurt, threatened, scared, or controlled by a partner or family member.

What you can do at home

  • Reach out to the hotline.
  • Make a safety plan.

Medicines

Support services.

At the doctor

A provider can help privately.

Questions you may be asked

  • Safety

The exam

A physical exam if hurt.

Tests

  • None

Prevention

Support helps.

  • Know the hotline

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

Start the symptom checker

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.