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Part of Support for gender-based violence and abuse in Alberta

Recognize the signs

Recognizing the signs can help people get support sooner, for themselves or for someone they care about.

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Support for gender-based violence and abuse in Alberta

For urgent help

  • Call 911 if you or someone else is in immediate danger.
  • Call 211 or text 211 (24/7) to connect with support services. Free, confidential and available in over 170 languages.
  • Call 1-855-242-3310 (24/7) for immediate counselling and crisis support for Indigenous Peoples across Canada.

Know the signs

Gender-based violence can happen to anyone. It is not always physical and may be difficult to recognize. Abuse often develops over time and may involve control, fear or isolation.

Recognizing the signs can help people get support sooner, for themselves or for someone they care about.

Signs of gender‑based violence

One sign on its own may not mean someone is experiencing violence. However, patterns or repeated behaviours can be a cause for concern.

If something feels wrong, it is okay to trust that feeling and seek support. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected.

  • Emotional signs

    • Feeling afraid, nervous, anxious or unsafe around one person.
    • Feeling blamed, ashamed or like everything is your fault.
    • Losing confidence or self-esteem, feeling unworthy.
    • Being hypervigilant, irritable or on edge.
    • Being afraid to speak freely or disagree.
    • Experiencing symptoms of post-traumatic stress.

  • Physical signs

    • Bruises or injuries without a clear explanation.
    • Frequent “accidents” or injuries.
    • Delaying or avoiding medical care.
    • Wearing clothing to hide injuries, regardless of the weather.

  • Behaviour and relationship signs

    • Pulling away from friends, family or coworkers.
    • Cancelling plans or avoiding social activities.
    • A partner or family member controlling where you go or who you see.
    • Someone else speaking for you or making decisions for you.
    • Increased alcohol or substance use.
    • Changes in school or workplace attendance and performance.

  • Technology‑related signs

    • Sharing personal information or intimate content without your permission.
    • Restricting or controlling access to technology.
    • Monitoring phone, messages or social media.
    • Controlling who you communicate with online.
    • Receiving repeated, threatening or controlling messages.
    • Being tracked through apps, location sharing or devices.
    • Feeling unsafe or increasingly reliant on technology.

  • Money, work or school signs

    • Not having access to your own money, bank account or important documents.
    • Being stopped from working, studying or volunteering.
    • Having to ask permission to buy basic items.
    • Using financial tools to threaten, harass or control.
    • Opening credit cards, loans or accounts without your knowledge.
    • Creating debt to control or create dependency.
    • Restricting access to financial information or resources.

You are not alone

Gender‑based violence is never your fault.

Support is available, even if you are unsure or just need to talk. Help is free, confidential, and available when you are ready.

  • Hand holding a heart.

    Alberta’s ONE LINE for Sexual Violence

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