Learning about the Complexities of Abusive Relationships

Our Prevention Education Coordinator describes a conversation with students during a recent high school presentation.

When speaking with a group of high school students about red flags and warning signs of abusive behavior, we talked about how difficult and complicated it can be to leave an unhealthy relationship. I shared a short film that follows a dating relationship and highlights common patterns like possessiveness, manipulation, guilt, and intensity. The behaviors begin subtly and gradually escalate into physical violence. In the final scene, the survivor scrolls through photos of happier moments and texts her partner, “Babe come back. I love you,” revealing the emotional pull that can remain even after harm.

Some students reacted with surprise and frustration, questioning why she would want him back after everything she experienced. That reaction opened the door for an important conversation: on average, it takes someone seven attempts to leave an abusive relationship. Survivors often blame themselves, believe the behavior is normal, hope their partner will change, or fear being alone. There are often practical barriers too, like shared housing, friends, or safety concerns. In fact, the most dangerous time for someone in an abusive relationship is during or after a breakup.

I reminded the group that while it is natural to feel upset watching someone stay, these situations are deeply complex and personal. Judgment doesn’t help but support does. We ended by discussing how to recognize warning signs and how to show up for a friend with empathy. I shared how Open Arms’ advocates are always available to listen, safety plan, and walk alongside anyone navigating an abusive relationship.

Open Arms offers free educational resources and programming to schools throughout Findlay and Hancock County. To schedule a presentation, call 419-420-9261 ext. 0240.

Meeting Survivors Where They Are

In 2025 Open Arms provided a total of 9,443 individual services. Each service provided was based on individual, unique needs. No two survivors’ needs are the same therefore each survivor receives services and case management that is specific to them.

We use a trauma informed approach when working with survivors to ‘meet them where they are.’ We shape our work around each survivor’s emotions, needs, and readiness to move forward. This helps to create safety, dignity, and genuine empowerment for survivors.

As advocates our role is to support survivors without judgement, provide them with options, and help guide them along the way to achieve their goals. Our own agendas and assumptions must be set aside. This can be challenging but ultimately the survivor determines where they want to go and we help them along their journey to get there.

Getting Involved

We recently had a few criminal justice students from Ohio Northern University that visited us this month.

They took time to learn about our programs and services and volunteered their time to help make sure our visitation rooms for our Harmony House program are clean and ready to go.

Volunteer Opportunities

Interested in giving your time? Individuals, organizations, and groups are all welcome—explore our volunteer opportunities below!

"Open Arms helped me change my life. Gave me a safe place that I could get some actual rest. Helped me feel confident enough to make the changes I needed."

-Survivor

Thank You for Supporting Survivors!

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