By Michelle Kricheff | Development & Marketing Associate
Thank you so much for your kind support of loveisrespect, a project of the National Domestic Violence Hotline. So far in 2018 you have helped answer almost 47,000 calls, chats and texts from people across the country.
The impact of your support is critical to the young people and others who contact loveisrespect each and every day, some for the very first time. We're pleased to share a recent story with you from the lines.
Rob*, a man in his early 20's, came in to our online chat service stating that his girlfriend of three years had recently left him due to his abusive behavior. Rob was heartbroken and looking for help. Our advocate asked him to describe the ways he abused his partner, and Rob explained that he would hold his girlfriend to unrealistic and unfair expectations, and often push her sexual boundaries. Though she had expressed her discomfort in the relationship many times, Rob had ignored her concerns and refused to change.
Our advocate explained to Rob how we are all responsible for our own behavior, and went over the importance of healthy communication, consent and respecting boundaries in a relationship. Rob had already set up an appointment to see a therapist to address his behavior, and our advocate validated what an awesome first step that was toward taking responsibility for his actions. Our advocate also shared some information about change in abusive partners, as well as the contact information for a local resource that may be able to provide further assistance.
At the end of his chat, Rob said, "You’ve helped me tonight. Thank you for that. I won’t be that person anymore. I’m gonna seek counseling and I know I got work to do to make sure this is permanent. I honestly believe that this is a change. I never felt this way about my feelings before. Thank you again for your help. I will be different. For me."
Thank you for being a hero to young people like Rob. Your support helps him and thousands more get the resources and support they so desperately need - 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We can't do this work without YOU!
*Name changed to protect the privacy of chatters.
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