Letter to the Editor

To the Editor:

February is Teen Dating

Violence Awareness Month

February was declared Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month by Congress in 2010. It is a nationally recognized campaign to raise awareness and education on teen dating violence and its impact on individuals, families, and communities.

Romantic relationships between teenagers can be complicated. Being in a relationship requires more maturity than most teens have developed, and are more likely to lead to problems with communication, jealousy, and selflessness.

Unhealthy relationships can take many forms, and there are certain behaviors that should be cause for concern and raise red flags:

• Extreme jealousy or insecurity

• Explosive outbursts, temper, or mood swings

• Possessiveness or controlling tendencies

• Isolation from friends or family (physically, financially, or emotionally)

• Frequently being put down, especially in front of others

• Threatening or causing physical violence

• Pressuring or forcing unwanted sexual activity

• Monitoring their whereabouts, what they are doing and who they are with

Talking to teens about the health of their relationships is a proactive way to support them, even if they are not in an abusive relationship. Parents need to feel comfortable talking about these issues. Schools need to take steps to become better prepared to address incidents on campus. And as a community, we need to rise up and say “No More.” It’s never too early to start having these conversations—adolescence is a crucial time to discuss love, respect, and boundaries.

If you or someone you know is involved in an unhealthy or abusive relationship, it is important to know that you are not alone, and telling someone you trust is the first step. Relationship violence can escalate quickly, so it’s important to take action as soon as you experience any emotional, physical, or sexual abuse. Remember: “ONE TIME IS ONE TOO MANY.”

Hands of Hope Resource Center in Long Prairie has trained advocates available if you want to talk in a safe, confidential environment. Advocates can be reached Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at 320-732-2319 or their 24/7 hotline at 800-682-4547.

Barb Dinkel Goodrich

Todd County Hands of Hope Resource Center

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