VHA Social Work
Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program (IPVAP) - VETERANS & PARTNERS
 |
 |
 |
 |
  |
Healthy behaviors are those that are respectful, supportive, and honest. Responsibilities are fairly divided and decisions are shared. Both people feel they can trust the other because each respects the other’s boundaries and they practice effective, open communication. Each person has their own healthy identity, takes care of themselves, and has a good support network outside of the relationship.
Examples:
- Showing support and compassion through words and actions.
- Expressing interest in understanding the other person’s experience.
- Sharing concerns, acknowledging them, and working together towards a solution.
- Spending time together while also encouraging each other to spend time with family and friends.
- Conflicts are resolved in a respectful and cooperative manner.
- Keeping some things private but generally being open and honest with each other. Earning and demonstrating trust by being reliable and respecting each other's privacy.
- Sharing responsibilities and making choices together, including parental and financial decisions.
- Talking about sex and reproductive decisions. Sex is consensual. Decisions around sex and reproductive choices are mutual.
If you have any concerns about your relationship, reach out for help.
For more information or assistance, contact your local Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program, Primary Care Social Worker or other Provider. Women Veterans can also ask for the Women Veterans Program Manager.
Not yet a patient at VA? - Apply Now
Find help in the community by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−7233 (SAFE) or TTY 1−800−787−3224.
* Links with an asterisk (*) next to them will take you outside the VA website. VA is not responsible for the content of the linked site. This link does not constitute endorsement of the non-VA website or its sponsor.
