While domestic violence may seem like the most personal of matters, it is a very real public-health issue in any community, including ours here in Miami. In many communities, particularly in earlier generations, domestic violence was simply not discussed. As a result, women and children often suffered in silence. But laws and scenarios have changed. We want to dispel any stigma that surrounds family abuse situations, whether they are mental, physical or sexual in nature. We support opening up dialogue and creating scenarios that make it possible to support victims in coming forward to seek the help and medical care they need.
Recognizing Signs of Abusive Relationships
Domestic violence knows no boundaries and can happen to anyone. Becoming aware and acknowledging the signs of an abusive relationship is often the first step to ending it. If you see yourself or someone you know in an unhealthy relationship, act. Help is available. No one should suffer or live in fear of someone they love.
Recognizing When Someone Is Being Abused
An abusive partner will often isolate and be controlling and restrict someone from seeing friends and family. Be aware when friends or family talk about their partner’s temper, jealousy or possessiveness. If a friend, co-worker or family member exhibits frequent injuries they attribute to accidents, or if they frequently miss work, school, or social events, this may be indicative of a bad situation at home. You also may be suspicious if someone is being denied access to money, credit cards or a car. If someone you know experiences behavior changes – like poor self-esteem when they used to be confident or being withdrawn when they used to be outgoing those changes should alert you to a problem. A person in an abusive relationship may become depressed, anxious or suicidal. Speak up and let someone know you care; you could save someone’s life.
Are You in An Unhealthy Relationship?
There are many different types of abuse: physical, emotional, and sexual are just a few. If you feel as if you have to be careful of what you say or do around your partner to avoid a violent reaction, chances are your relationship is unhealthy or abusive. If your partner belittles or humiliates you, tries to control you, isolates you from family and friends, or if you simply fear your partner and begin to experience a sense of helplessness or desperation you need to seek help.
If you are in an abusive scenario and need help you can reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline online 24/7.
Cycle of Abuse
Domestic abuse falls into a common pattern, or cycle, of violence that repeats. Know the cycle:
- Abuse
- Guilt
- Excuses
- Normal Behavior
- Fantasy Set-up
Don’t hesitate to seek medical help if you have been injured by domestic violence. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE.
As part of Miami’s inner-city community, we are committed to the people we serve. As your community clinical practice, at Family Medical Clinic Kendall we are dedicated to treating each individual as a whole. We are discreet and confidential. If you are experiencing domestic violence, we can help you get the medical care required, and provide you with the right resources for getting healthy and staying safe. Our commitment to you begins the moment you step into our office. Located at 9000 SW 137th Avenue, Suite 111, in Miami, we offer a walk-in clinic, urgent care and a lab & diagnostics. Call us today (305) 603-7824.