Sara Elizabeth Duke, a Richmond native studying at Vanderbilt University to become a women’s health nurse practitioner, says although it may not always be a teen’s strong suit, communication is crucial when it comes to maintaining healthy relationships. “Keeping an open line to trusted adults is always helpful—but often not practical in a teen world.”
That’s where online resources and hotlines (some of which allow texting rather than actual speaking, a boon for today’s teens) can help provide answers and resources.
Hotlines:
Family Violence and Sexual Assault Hotline, operated by the Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance, 800-838-8238.
National Dating Abuse Helpline:866-331-9474, or text 77054
National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-SAFE (7233)
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE (4673)
Organizations and Websites:
Safe Harbor: www.safeharborshelter.com, or 249-9470
YWCA: www.ywcarichmond.org, or 643-0888
www.firstthingsrichmond.org
www.chooserespect.org
www.loveisrespect.org/
www.theredflagcampaign.org
www.loveisnotabuse.com
www.vdh.virginia.gov/ofhs/prevention/dsvp/datingviolence/
www.cdc.gov/ViolencePrevention/intimatepartnerviolence/teen_dating_violence.html/
www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/datingmatters
