TNC Foundation

Get Help

Abuse can take many forms—including physical, emotional, sexual, verbal, financial, and psychological—and can occur in any type of relationship, whether with a partner, family member, caregiver, or friend. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, you are not alone and support is available. Reaching out for help is an important first step toward safety and healing. You can access confidential assistance 24 hours a day from trained advocates who can listen, provide information, help you plan for safety, and connect you with local resources such as shelters, counseling, legal services, and support groups. No one deserves to live in fear, and support is available to help individuals move toward safety and healing.

Common Signs to Look For

  • Unexplained injuries or frequent “accidents”
  • Extreme fear of upsetting a partner or caregiver
  • Isolation from friends, family, or normal activities
  • Being monitored or controlled — phone, social media, finances, or transportation
  • Sudden changes in personality, behavior, or clothing
  • Constant anxiety, nervousness, or feeling “on edge”
  • Excessive apologizing or taking blame that isn’t theirs
  • Threats, intimidation, or pressure of any kind

Signs in Children & Teens

  • Fear of going home
    Sudden drop in grades or withdrawal from activities
  • Regression: nightmares, bedwetting, clinginess
  • Signs of neglect, or unexplained bruises
  • Knowledge or behavior beyond what is age-appropriate

If something feels wrong, trust that instinct. Abuse is never your fault. Ways to Get Help (24/7 Hotlines and Resources):

National Domestic Violence Hotline

Call 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or TTY 1-800-787-3224 — confidential support and assistance for anyone experiencing domestic violence.

Website: www.thehotline.org

The SAFE Alliance

Call 512-267-SAFE (7233) or text “SAFE” to 737-888-7233 — 24/7 confidential SAFEline is available for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, sex trafficking, and child abuse.

Website: www.safeaustin.org

National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline

Call 1-866-331-9474 or text “loveis” to 22522 — support and information for young people experiencing unhealthy or abusive relationships.

Website: www.loveisrespect.org

RAINN — National Sexual Assault Hotline

Call 1-800-656-4673 (HOPE) or access confidential online chat — support for survivors of sexual violence.

Website: www.rainn.org

Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline

Call 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453) — crisis intervention, information, and referral services for child abuse.

Website: www.childhelp.org

What to Do Now:

If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number. Otherwise, contacting any of the hotlines above will connect you with a trained advocate who can help evaluate your situation, offer guidance, help you develop a safety plan, and provide referrals to free or low-cost local support services in your community.