In immediate danger? Call your local emergency number.

Find a crisis line in your country
Griefyard Works
Search My Harbor Start here
The Library

Practical guideRelationshipsDomestic violenceStarting over1 minute read

Dating again after abuse

How to move forward, and signs to watch for.

After an abusive relationship, dating again can feel exciting and terrifying.

There is no right time

Some people want to date soon. Others need years. Wait until you feel ready, not when others say you should be.

Signs worth noticing early

  • Moving very fast, talking about forever within weeks
  • Wanting all your time
  • Jealousy presented as love
  • Not respecting small no's
  • Speaking badly about every former partner

Trust your gut

After abuse, people sometimes learn to ignore warning feelings. Practise noticing them again.

Getting support

Talking with a counsellor or support group can help you understand patterns and feel safer.

KEEP EXPLORING

Keep exploring.

Everything

  • CampaignBreak the stigma

    Men can leave.

    Abuse from a partner is not limited by gender or orientation. Neither is the right to be safe.

    Men

  • CourseBeing written

    After the relationship

    Rebuilding after a relationship ends, including one that was controlling or unsafe. Practical, honest, and written for men as well as everyone else.

    $194 modulesRelationships

  • ProgramForming now

    Return to Shore

    Rebuilding after trauma, crisis, loss or major disruption.

    From $149, sliding scaleOnline, hybrid where partners allowStarting over

  • ToolFree sheet

    The first ninety days

    What has to be handled after a death, a separation, or a release, in the order it has to be handled.

    Thirty minutes to read, then a few minutes a dayStarting over

  • CourseOpen now

    The first ninety days

    What actually has to be handled, in what order, and what can wait. Nothing in it about feelings, which is exactly why it works.

    Free3 modules, 33 minutesGrief

Quick exitLeaves this page immediately. Shortcut: Escape twice.