Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love, but it’s also an opportunity to reflect on what healthy love truly looks like. Love should feel safe, supportive, and respectful. It should never involve fear, control, or harm.
Abuse doesn’t always begin with obvious warning signs. Many unhealthy relationships start out appearing loving, with concerning behaviors emerging gradually over time. While every situation is different, abuse often centers on power and control, not care.
Warning signs may include constant criticism, extreme jealousy, isolation from friends or family, control over finances or decisions, intimidation, pressure around sex or substance use, threats involving children or pets, or destruction of personal belongings.
If you or someone you know needs support, help is available. The Kathy J. Weinman Shelter provides a safe, confidential space for women and their children experiencing intimate partner violence, along with resources focused on safety and healing.
Love should never hurt and you don’t have to face violence alone. For more information on how to get help, please visit: https://stlouiscountymo.gov/kathy-j-weinman-shelter/
