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Domestic violence is a pattern of behaviors used by one person to gain power and control over another in an intimate or family relationship.

Domestic violence can happen between:

• Current or former partners or spouses
• Dating partners
• People who live together
• Family members or caregivers

Domestic violence is not just physical abuse. It can include many forms of harm.

Domestic Violence May Include:

• Physical abuse (hitting, pushing, choking, restraining)
• Emotional or verbal abuse (threats, humiliation, intimidation)
• Sexual abuse or coercion
• Financial abuse (controlling money, preventing work)
• Isolation from friends, family, or community
• Stalking, monitoring, or controlling behavior

Domestic violence can happen to anyone and is never the victim/survivor’s fault.

Not all abuse leaves visible injuries. Many signs are emotional or behavioral.

Physical Signs May Include:

• Unexplained injuries or frequent “accidents”
• Chronic pain, headaches, or fatigue
• Delayed or avoided medical care

Emotional or Behavioral Signs May Include:

• Fear of a partner or family member
• Anxiety, depression, or feeling “on edge”
• Low self-esteem or self-blame
• Isolation from friends, family, or cultural supports
• Changes in work, school, or daily routines

If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone you care about, help is available.

What to Do If You Are Experiencing Domestic Violence

You deserve to be safe. You have choices, and support is available at every step.

1. Get to a Safe Place. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. If possible, go somewhere safe, such as a trusted person’s home, a shelter, or a public place.

2. Seek Medical Care. If you are injured or concerned about your health call 911 or seek medical care as soon as possible. You can receive treatment even if you choose not to report. Healthcare providers can help document injuries and support your health needs.

3. Reporting. Reporting to law enforcement is your choice. Call 911 or work with an advocate. An advocate can help you decide what works best for you and can help you file a protection order.

 4. Reach out for support. Advocates can support you regardless of what you decide and can offer guidance and resources. You do not have to stay in a shelter to receive services.

MORE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE RESOURCES

You deserve to be safe. You have choices, and support is available at every step.

1. Get to a Safe Place. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. If possible, go somewhere safe, such as a trusted person’s home, a shelter, or a public place.

2. Seek Medical Care. If you are injured or concerned about your health call 911 or seek medical care as soon as possible. You can receive treatment even if you choose not to report. Healthcare providers can help document injuries and support your health needs.

3. Reporting. Reporting to law enforcement is your choice. Call 911 or work with an advocate. An advocate can help you decide what works best for you and can help you file a protection order.

 4. Reach out for support. Advocates can support you regardless of what you decide and can offer guidance and resources. You do not have to stay in a shelter to receive services.

For Information on domestic violence assessments and group treatment for offenders, call 605-731-2021 or visit LSS Behavioral Health Services.

Sexual Assault is any sexual contact or behavior that happens without your consent. Sexual Assault can be committed by a stranger, or someone you know, including a partner, family member, friend, or acquaintance.

Sexual assault may include: 

• Unwanted touching or groping
• Sexual acts when someone is unable to consent due to drugs, alcohol, sleep, age, disability, or fear
• Forced or coerced sexual acts

Sexual assault is never your fault, regardless of what you were wearing, where you were, or whether you knew the person.

Sexual Assault affects everyone differently. There is no “right” way to feel or respond.

Physical Signs May Include:

• Pain, bruising, or injuries
• Difficulty sleeping or changes in appetite
• Headaches, stomach pain, or other unexplained physical symptoms

Emotional or Behavioral Signs May Include:

• Shock, numbness, fear, or confusion
• Anxiety, depression, or panic attacks
• Flashbacks or nightmares
• Feeling ashamed, guilty, or disconnected
• Withdrawing from people or activities

These reactions are common and valid. Support can help.

1. Get to a Safe Place. Find a safe location, like a hospital. If you do not feel safe or you’re in immediate danger, call 911. Find a shelter or a sexual assault advocate near you. 

2. Seek Medical Care. Call 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency room. It is important to see a medical professional to help both your immediate physical health and prevent further damage to your health. A doctor or nurse may give you medicine to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and emergency contraception to prevent pregnancy. You can receive an exam and treatment without having to report to the police or make other decisions at this time. A nurse or doctor can walk you through your options. The exam will be completed at no charge to you, and is required by law to be paid for by the county the crime was committed in.

3. Reporting. The decision to report the assault to law enforcement is up to you and an entirely personal decision.  Call 911 or work with an advocate to reach out. Having a sexual assault forensic exam ensures that the forensic evidence will be safely preserved if you decide to report at a later time.

4. Reach out for Support. Advocates are available to help you navigate the aftermath of a rape or sexual assault and can offer support or guidance. Local advocacy agencies are listed below.