Need Help? Call 911 or the CAWES Family Violence Helpline 1-888-346-5643 Now
Family Violence Helpline
You have the right to a healthy relationship! You do not deserve to be abused, and it is not your fault.
If the safety of you or your children is at risk, call 911or the CAWES Family Violence Helpline 1-888-346-5643 Now.
Our trained Case Managers are available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week, 365 days-a-year to support you in your journey. We are here to answer your questions, hear your voice and provide support and advice in a non-judgmental environment. We understand that no two relationships are the same, and your situation is unique.
Wherever you are, whatever you need – we are here to help. Please call.
How to Recognize Violence
Family violence is when one person in a relationship uses a pattern of behaviors to intentionally control or harm another person. It can happen in heterosexual, same-sex, common-law, separated/divorced and dating relationships. Family violence is present in homes, regardless of race, religion, age, income or education.
If you recognize any of the following behaviors in your relationship or think you may be experiencing family violence call us on our 24 hour Family Violence Helpline 1-403-346-5643 or toll-free 1-888-346-5643.
Many people think of family violence or abuse as simply physical: hitting, pushing, slapping, etc., but in fact it can take on many forms.
Verbal Abuse
Behavior that causes harm with words
How it works: Name calling, insults, public humiliation, yelling
Early Warning Signs: Teasing that includes insults
Psychological and Emotional Abuse
Behavior intended to cause psychological or emotional distress
How it works: Threats, intimidation, put-downs, jealousy, possessiveness, isolating a person from friends and family, destroying gifts, clothing, or letters or damaging a car, home or possessions.
Early Warning Signs:Pouting when you spend time with your friends, threatening to leave you in an unsafe location, trying to control what you do.
Physical Abuse
Behaviors that inflict harm on a person
How it works: Slapping, hitting, shoving, grabbing, hair pulling, biting, throwing objects
Early Warning Signs: Going into a rage when disappointed or frustrated, teasing, tripping, pushing, threatening to injure.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual advances that make a person feel uncomfortable; sexual behavior that is unwanted
How it works: Insisting physically, or verbally that a person who has said "no", is forced to have sex anyway
Early Warning Signs: Using emotional blackmail to talk you into having sex ("if you loved me, you would…")