Awareness is more than just information, it’s prevention, protection and empowerment. Here at Roses Life Women Center, we believe that when communities and women understand the signs of danger and know where to go if you feel unsafe. Lives can change and violence can be prevented before it happens or even begins.
If you feel unsafe, never ignore that feeling. Every woman globally deserves to have safety, support and their dignity. Part 3 of this blog will focus on warning signs, trusting your instincts and knowing the steps to take if you or someone you know feels unsafe or threatened.
Recognizing Warning Signs
Gender Based Violence doesn’t always start with physical harm. It often starts with small incorrect behaviours that increase over time. By spreading awareness of these signs, it can help you respond quicker;
- Pressure or Coercion: Being guilted and or forced into actions that you are NOT comfortable with such as; socially, sexually, emotionally or financially.
- Unpredictability or Escalating Anger: Intimidation, sudden outburst or destruction of your personal belongings.
- Isolation: A family member or partner is limiting where you can go, who you can talk to or who you can go see.
- Monitoring or Controlling: Always checking your phone, finances, messages and movements.
- Verbal or Emotional Abuse: Threats, insults, humiliation, gaslighting or making you feel responsible for their bad behaviours.
Your feelings matter. If something is feeling wrong, uncomfortable or unsafe, it is very important that you listen to that inner warning.
What To Do If You Feel Unsafe
If you feel that your own safety or safety of your children is at risk, you are not alone in this and help is available for you. By taking any steps, whether big or small, it is a true act of courage.
- Trust Your Instincts:
You do not need proof before seeking safety. If you feel like you are in a dangerous situation, treating it seriously can protect you. - Reach Out To A Trusted Person:
This might be your friend, teacher, parent, family member, coworker or spiritual leader.
By speaking your truth, this breaks isolation and allows trusted people to support and help guide you. - Create A Safety Plan:
A safety plan can include;
– Identifying a safe place to go.
– Keeping emergency contacts/numbers easily accessible.
– Establishing a code word with your trusted person that you can signal when you need help.
– Prepping a small bag with important documents, essentials and medications. - Know Local Resources:
Crisis lines, shelters, community services and legal supports are here to protect you. If you are unsure of what you need, reaching out can allow you to understand your options. - Immediate Danger:
Call your local emergency number immediately. Your safety always comes first.
How Awareness Can Protect Communities
When individuals learn the signs of abuse and know how to respond, entire communities can become safer. Awareness empowers;
- Leaders to challenge harmful and or dangerous norms.
- Friends to know when something is wrong.
- Youth to build healthy relationship habits early on.
- Neighbours to support each other instead of ignoring.
- Communities to replace silence with action and understanding.
Every workshop, resources that are shared, and conversations help to create a community where violence cannot hide.
Roses Life Women Center Is Here For You
Whether you are afraid, unsure, or want to learn more, you never have to walk this journey alone. We provide education, confidential support, emotional care, safety planning and community resources which are there to help you feel heard, seen and protected.
If there is someone you know who needs help or yourself, reach out.
Your voice matters. Your safety matters. You matter.
