Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month: Love Should Never Hurt

February is often associated with love, connection, and relationships — but it’s also Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM). This month is a powerful reminder that love should feel safe, respectful, and supportive, especially for teens who are still learning what healthy relationships look like.

At Flourishing Minds Wellness Center, we believe that awareness, education, and open conversations save lives.

What Is Teen Dating Violence?

Teen dating violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors used to gain power or control over a partner. It can happen in any type of relationship — in person or online — and it doesn’t always leave visible marks.

Teen dating violence may include:

• Emotional or verbal abuse (insults, manipulation, threats, humiliation)

• Physical abuse (hitting, pushing, grabbing, restraining)

• Sexual abuse (pressure, coercion, or lack of consent)

• Digital abuse (constant texting, monitoring social media, sharing private images, controlling online behavior)

Abuse can happen to anyone — regardless of gender, background, or experience.

Warning Signs Teens Should Never Ignore

Many teens don’t realize they’re experiencing abuse because it can start subtly. Some red flags include:

• Feeling afraid to upset your partner

• Being pressured to move faster than you’re comfortable with

• A partner who checks your phone or demands passwords

• Isolation from friends or family

• Extreme jealousy or possessiveness

• Being blamed for your partner’s anger or behavior

If a relationship causes stress, fear, or constant anxiety — that’s not love.

The Connection Between Dating Violence, Mental Health & Substance Use

Unhealthy relationships can deeply impact a teen’s emotional well-being. Teens experiencing dating violence may struggle with:

• Depression or anxiety

• Low self-esteem

• Trauma responses

• School difficulties

• Increased substance use as a way to cope or escape

Substances can sometimes be used to numb emotional pain or manage stress, but they often make situations more dangerous and harder to escape.

Healthy coping starts with support, education, and safe spaces.

What Healthy Teen Relationships Look Like

Healthy relationships are built on:

• Mutual respect

• Honest communication

• Trust and boundaries

• Support for individuality

• Consent — always

Love should never involve fear, control, or harm.

How Parents, Caregivers & Communities Can Help

• Talk openly with teens about relationships — early and often

• Model healthy communication and boundaries

• Take concerns seriously, even if they seem “small”

• Encourage teens to speak up and ask for help

• Know local mental health and support resources

When teens feel supported, they are more likely to seek help.

You Are Not Alone

If you or someone you know is experiencing teen dating violence, help is available. Support can include:

• Mental health counseling

• Peer support programs

• School or community resources

• Crisis hotlines and advocacy services

As a mental health and substance use agency, Flourishing Minds Wellness Center is committed to helping teens and families heal, grow, and flourish in safe and healthy environments.

Our Message This Month — and Always

Love should never hurt.

Your voice matters.

Help is available.

This Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, let’s continue the conversation, support our youth, and create a community where healthy relationships are the standard — not the exception.