Physical Abuse

Emergencies

Yes	Do you have any of the following symptoms that require emergency treatment? Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

• You think you are in immediate physical danger.
• You or someone else has just been physically abused or sexually assaulted (raped).
• You have been physically hurt and do not have someone who can safely take you to emergency care.

Check Your Symptoms

If you answer yes to any of the following questions, click on the "Yes" in front of the question for information about how soon to see a health professional.

Review risk factors that may increase your chance of becoming a victim of violent behavior.

If you have:

• Been abused by your partner: Go to the topic Domestic Abuse.
• Problems with anger or trouble controlling your violent impulses: Go to the topic Anger, Hostility, and Violent Behavior.
• Been sexually abused or assaulted (raped): Go to the topic Sexual Abuse or Rape.

Yes	Has someone hurt you on purpose?
Yes	Has someone in your family been hurt on purpose?

Other Symptoms to Watch For

Even if there is not a physical injury, it is important to find help if you think abuse or neglect has occurred. If you are concerned about:

• Domestic abuse (intimate partner violence): call the National Domestic Violence Hotline to help you find resources in your area. Call the hotline toll-free: 1-800-799-7233. For more information, see the topic Domestic Violence.
• Child abuse and neglect: Call a local social service or mental health department. Many social service agencies involved with child abuse investigation also offer services to parents who need help with anger and stress. Agencies are listed in the phone book, usually under your state's Department of Social Services, Protective Services, Social and Rehabilitative Services, or Children and Family Services. For more information, see the topic Child Abuse and Neglect or Shaken Baby Syndrome.
• Elder abuse: Call the National Directory of Hotlines and Crisis Intervention Centers for a referral to services offered in your area: 1-800-999-9999 or TDD 1-800-999-9915. For more information, see the topic Elder Abuse.

If you are concerned that a family member, friend, or coworker has a problem with violent behavior: Go to the topic Anger, Hostility, and Violent Behavior.

If a visit to a health professional is not needed immediately, see the Home Treatment section for self-care information.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: January 18, 2008
Medical Review:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Brigid McCaw, MD, MS, MPH, FACP - Family Violence Prevention
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