Some people hate it, and some people love it, but either way Valentine’s Day is 4 days away! So, let’s have a chat about relationships! It doesn’t matter if you’re currently seeing someone, actively looking, or happily, perpetually single. Valentine’s Day and relationships are things most people thinks about on Feb. 14. Maybe you’re just in it for the discount chocolate on Feb. 15, your idea of sweet nothings is whispering I want to be with you as much as–if not more–I don’t want to be with a Furby at night, or you spend weeks planning something special for your boo.
To be honest, I’m more excited for Deadpool to be released on Feb. 12 this year, but to each their own.
Source: Marvel
But on a more serious note, let’s take a closer at some relationship statistics for college students…
- 43 percent of women report experiencing violent and abusive dating behaviors
- 1 in 3 people in relationships have given their partner their computer, email, or social network passwords and these students are more likely to experience digital dating abuse
- 57 percent say dating abuse is difficult to identify and 58 percent don’t know how to help someone who is experiencing it
What defines a healthy relationship?
No matter your relationship status these are important questions to think about. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is able to help:
Healthy relationships allow both partners to feel supported and connected but still feel independent. COMMUNICATION and BOUNDARIES are the two major components of a healthy relationship. Ultimately, the two people in the relationship decide what is healthy for them and what is not. If something doesn’t feel right, you should have the freedom to voice your concerns to your partner.
Where can you get help or just talk to someone?
*If you are in an unsafe relationship please use caution and access these links from a public computer.
- Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE. It’s open 24/7, and there are no fees, no names, no judgement, just help. Here’s what to expect when you contact the hotline. They even have a live chat system online.
- Knowledge is power. Learn more about safety planning
- Call the organization Love is Respect at 1-866-331-9474. The line is open 24/7. You can even chat online with their representatives.
- For advice on how to get help for someone else The National Domestic Violence Hotline, Love is Respect, and Ohio State’s BuckMD Blog can help.
- The Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence provides a comprehensive list of in person service centers separated by county.
- Student Life at Ohio State has compiled information and resources to help victims of sexual violence.
I know it’s a heavy topic but it’s one that has the potential to impact everyone regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, age, or personality. So, please, if you or someone you know is in this position, speak up.