Recognizing the Signs of Domestic Violence / Reconociendo las Señales
Domestic violence is not always physical. It can include behaviors used to control, intimidate, isolate, or harm another person.
Warning Signs
- Extreme jealousy or possessiveness
- Monitoring calls, texts, or social media
- Controlling money or finances
- Isolating someone from family and friends
- Constant criticism, insults, or humiliation
- Threats or intimidation
- Controlling where someone goes or who they see
- Physical violence
- Sexual coercion or abuse
- Fear of a partner’s reactions
Remember:
You deserve respect and safety. Abuse is never your fault. Help is available. You are not alone. Seeking help is a sign of strength.
Safety Planning & MA Resources / Planificación de Seguridad
If you are experiencing abuse or know someone who may need help, consider the following:
Safety Planning Tips
- Identify trusted people you can contact for support.
- Keep important documents in a safe place if possible.
- Have emergency phone numbers available.
- Create a plan for where you could go in an emergency.
- Teach children how to call for help if necessary.
- Trust your instincts if you feel unsafe.
SafeLink Massachusetts — 24/7: 877-785-2020
SafeLink provides free and confidential support, including safety planning, shelter referrals, advocacy services, and community resources.
Emergency Shelter Resources / Recursos de Refugio
Availability, hours, services, and eligibility requirements may change. Please call the organization directly before traveling.
Men / Hombres
112 Southampton St., Boston — 617-534-4440
Pine Street Inn Shattuck Shelter, 170 Morton St., Jamaica Plain — 617-892-7917
Pine Street Inn Men’s Inn, 444 Harrison Ave., Boston — 617-892-9207
Women / Mujeres
Woods Mullen Shelter, 794 Massachusetts Ave., Boston — 617-534-7100
Pine Street Inn Yawkey House, 363 Albany St., Boston — 617-892-9321
Families / Familias
Massachusetts Emergency Family Shelter — 866-584-0653
Telephone applications are accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., except state holidays.
Youth (Ages 14–24) / Jóvenes (Edades 14–24)
Bridge Over Troubled Waters, 47 West St., Boston — 617-423-9575
Y2Y (Ages 18–24), 1 Church St., Cambridge — 617-864-0795
Veterans / Veteranos
New England Center and Home for Veterans, 17 Court St., Boston — 617-371-1800
Drop-In Center / Centro Nocturno
Boston Night Center, 31 Bowker St., Boston (8:30 p.m.–6:30 a.m. — No beds) — 857-296-0332
Domestic Violence & Emergency / Violencia Doméstica y Emergencia
SafeLink Massachusetts (24/7): 877-785-2020
Emergency: Call 911
Last reviewed: August 20, 2026