Healthy Relationships Matter: Understanding Teen Dating Violence & Sexual Violence

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is about making sure teens know what healthy relationships look like, how to spot warning signs early, and where to go for help. One important thing to understand is that teen dating violence and sexual violence are often connected—and knowing that can help keep you and your friends safer.

If something in a relationship feels confusing, uncomfortable, or wrong, that matters. Your feelings matter.

How Are Teen Dating Violence and Sexual Violence Connected?

Teen dating violence isn’t always physical. It often starts with control, pressure, or disrespect, and sometimes that can turn into sexual violence.

Sexual violence in teen relationships can include:

• Feeling pressured to do something sexual you don’t want to do

• Someone not respecting your boundaries

• Being made to feel guilty, scared, or obligated

• Someone sharing private photos or messages without permission

A healthy relationship is never about control. If someone tries to control your body, your choices, or your voice, that’s not okay.

Signs of Teen Dating Violence

Sometimes it’s hard to tell if a relationship is unhealthy—especially when you care about the person. Here are some warning signs to look out for:

Emotional & Behavioral Signs

• Feeling anxious, scared, or stressed about your relationship

• Feeling like you have to “walk on eggshells”

• Losing confidence or feeling bad about yourself

• Pulling away from friends or activities you used to enjoy

Relationship Red Flags

• Extreme jealousy or constant accusations

• Being told what you can wear, who you can talk to, or where you can go

• Pressure to do things you’re not comfortable with

• Being insulted, embarrassed, or made to feel small

Digital Red Flags

• Constant texting or checking where you are

• Demands for passwords

• Threats to share private messages or photos

If you recognize these signs in your relationship—or a friend’s—it’s okay to ask for help.

What You Can Do If You’re a Teen

You are not weak for needing support. You are not “dramatic.” And you are not alone.

• Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, it probably is

• Talk to someone you trust (a friend, family member, counselor, or advocate)

• Remember: you deserve respect, safety, and choice

Help is available even if you’re not sure what you want to do yet.

How to Help as a Friend

Friends can make a huge difference.

• Listen without judging or pressuring

• Believe them when they share their experience

• Don’t blame them or tell them what they “should” do

• Stay connected and encourage support from a trusted adult or advocate

Sometimes just saying, “I’m here for you and you don’t deserve this,” can mean everything.

Support From Family, Schools, and the Community

For Family Members

• Keep conversations open and calm

• Talk about consent, boundaries, and respect

• Focus on safety and support, not punishment

• Help connect teens to resources like SAVAC

For School Officials & Educators

• Teach students about healthy relationships and consent

• Know the warning signs and how to respond safely

• Provide confidential, supportive reporting options

• Partner with local advocacy organizations

For the Community

• Support prevention and education programs

• Share resources during Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

• Speak up for teen safety and survivor support

Coping and Healing After Dating or Sexual Violence

Healing takes time—and it looks different for everyone.

Helpful support can include:

• Talking to a counselor or advocate

• Learning coping skills for stress and emotions

• Rebuilding confidence and independence

• Being reminded again and again: it was not your fault

You don’t have to have all the answers to ask for help.

Building Healthy Relationships Moving Forward

Healthy relationships are built on:

• Respect

• Honest communication

• Clear and enthusiastic consent

• Trust and independence

• Support for your goals and friendships

You deserve relationships that make you feel safe, valued, and heard.

SAVAC Is Here for You

SAVAC’s mission is to support, empower, and advocate for survivors of sexual and dating violence while working to prevent violence through education and community outreach. We believe teens deserve safe relationships and confidential, judgment-free support.

If you or someone you know needs help, SAVAC is here:

SAVAC 24-Hour Hotline: 706-419-8775

SAVAC Office: 706-861-0929

You can call to:

• Talk to a trained advocate

• Get information and resources

• Ask questions or just be heard

• Support a friend or family member

You don’t have to go through this alone.

A Final Message to Teens

You deserve love that feels safe.

You deserve boundaries that are respected.

You deserve help when you need it.

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month reminds us that speaking up, supporting each other, and knowing where to turn can save lives and change futures.

SAVAC is here—today, tomorrow, and whenever you’re ready.