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Frequently Asked Questions

About Domestic Violence

HarborCOV is here to answer any questions you have about domestic violence.

Whether you are hoping to support a friend or family member who is experiencing domestic violence or if you are unsure if you are being abused, HarborCOV is available to support you. 

Some of our most frequently asked questions include:

What are the warning signs of domestic violence?

A “yes” answer to any of these questions may indicate that you are headed down a path that could ultimately be emotionally and physically dangerous. If you would like to talk about what is going on in your relationship, you can call our hotline at any time.

  • Threatens to kill you and/or your children
  • Threatens to or uses a weapon against you
  • If your abuser is unemployed
  • Strangles you
  • Extreme jealousy and/or obsessive behaviors
  • Forces sex
  • Controls most or all of your daily activities
  • Owns or has access to weapons (e.g. guns, knives, etc.)
  • Violence is increasing in severity and/or frequency
  • Abuses alcohol and/or other drugs
  • Violent with (female) victim during pregnancy
  • Threatens or attempts to commit suicide
  • Threatens to harm you and your children
  • Stalking behaviors (e.g. follows, spies, and/or leaves threatening messages)
  • Believes your abuser could or might try to kill you and/or the children
  • Recent separation after living together/married within the past year
  • Child(ren) is in the home that is not the abuser’s biological child(ren)
  • History of intimate partner violence in the relationship Abuse toward animals
Are all HarborCOV programs and services free?

Yes, all support from HarborCOV is completely free. There is no cost to participate in any of our programs.

Will HarborCOV tell anyone about my situation?

No. Reaching out to HarborCOV is completely confidential. We will never reveal that you have reached out or accessed support from us without your permission.

What languages do HarborCOV staff speak?

HarborCOV staff speak English, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese, Khmer, Lingala, and French. We also have a language line that allows us to communicate with individuals who speak more than 100 other languages.

How can I support someone who is experiencing domestic violence?

The best way to support a survivor is to let them know that you support them and that you do not judge them. You can also tell them that HarborCOV is a free, confidential resource for survivors and share our 24/7 hotline number with them.

Do I have to leave my relationship?

No. At HarborCOV, we understand that you may love your partner and want to stay with them. We will follow your lead and partner with you to keep you safe.

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