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What is Emotional Abuse?

24-Hour Domestic Violence Hotline: 208.343.7025 24-hour Rape Crisis Hotline: 208.345.7273 (RAPE)

Rachel Abell- Court Advocate

At the WCA, we believe abuse is not limited to physical and sexual violence. Emotional abuse is one common form of abuse that can often be minimized in severity because it does not leave physical scars. Emotional abuse is a pattern of behavior used to achieve and maintain power and control over another person typically by damaging someone’s self-esteem. It is not surprising that the effects of emotional abuse can have a harmful impact on someone’s mental health and emotional well-being, making this topic very relevant for Mental Health Awareness Month.

One of the most troubling aspects of emotional abuse is that it is not always easy to recognize, which can be very confusing for someone experiencing it. In an attempt to achieve and maintain power and control, abusers may use different tactics. Some tactics can be easily identifiable, such as name-calling or threats, however, abusers do not typically start with these types of tactics. There are a variety of other tactics used in emotionally abusive relationships that can be more difficult to detect. For instance, an abuser may claim that he is calling and checking in repeatedly, or showing up unannounced because he is just trying to be “thoughtful” or make sure his partner is safe. Unfortunately, these types of actions or behaviors can be misconstrued as romantic gestures at the beginning of a relationship. We often see that tactics such as this escalate over time to manipulate, control and isolate a person.

Everyone is entitled to a safe and healthy relationship. As we continue to work towards bringing awareness to mental health this month, it is important that we also continue to acknowledge and discuss the seriousness of emotional abuse. The effects not only have a harmful impact on someone’s mental health, but they can be long-lasting.

 

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EVENTS

Sep 29

2023

Domestic Violence Awareness Month – 2023

Domestic Violence Awareness Month October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the WCA will be holding a joint press conference on September 29 at the Idaho Peace Officers’ Memorial at 10am. The WCA and other Domestic Violence service providers will be on site with information and awareness raising materials for our community members. Elected officials […]

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Oct 01

2023

Sue B Stroll and 5K October 1, 2023

Join us for the 14th annual SueB 5k  and  3k  Urban  stroll  for  Every-Body Continuing to honor the memory of Susan “SueB” Newby, the 14th annual SueB 5K Fun Run will kick off on Sunday, October 1st at 12 noon at Julia Davis Park. You can sign up to participate here with 5K registration starting at $25. […]

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Oct 01

2023

SueB 5k and Family Friendly Scavenger Hunt October 1, 2023

Join us for the 14th annual SueB 5k and 3k Family Friendly Scavenger Hunt for EveryBODY! The 14th annual SueB 5k and 3k Scavenger Hunt will be on October 1, 2023 and we hope you can join us! We invite you to join us to raise awareness about domestic abuse, while memorializing the life of […]

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Oct 18

2023

Witches Night Out at the Village

Mark your calendars for Witches Night Out on October 18, 2023 from 6 – 9 p.m. Wednesday, October 18 we will be celebrating Witches Night Out at The Village at Meridian, hosted by Meridian’s Centercal Properties and its marvelous merchants. Several sponsors help make the evening a resounding success, raising funds for the WCA’ clients’ […]

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Dec 14

2023

Concert for Cause

Mark you calendars for 2023 Concert for Cause – December 14th Thursday, December 14th 94.9 The River is excited to present headlining artist Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness with Michigander and Arlie for their 2023 Concert for Cause benefitting the WCA! Join us at The Knitting Factory Concert House in Bodo for an evening of […]

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