POLICE ASSOCIATION OF NOVA SCOTIA 61 Warning signs of abuse continued Youth As victims of family violence, youth may: • have mood swings • change their style of clothing, makeup or hair • start hanging out with different people • skip or drop out of school, or have falling or failing grades • overreact to things that seem small or unimportant • seem to lose confidence in themselves • withdraw from friends or family • stop going out or doing activities they used to enjoy • have unexplained bruises or other injuries • start smoking or using drugs or alcohol to cope • run away from home repeatedly Older adults As victims of family violence, older adults may: • seem frightened, withdrawn or depressed • seem groggy all the time, possibly due to overmedicating • show signs of depression or anxiety • lose weight or seem too thin • wear dirty clothing or clothing not suitable for the season • not have their glasses, dentures, hearing or other assistive devices • have unexplained bruises, sores or other injuries • be isolated from others • have items missing from their homes • have someone cashing their pension cheques or withdrawing money from their bank accounts • have their medication taken from them Know your rights! Family violence is a crime. You have the right to: • be free and safe from violence • be treated with courtesy, compassion and respect • get information about their legal rights • press charges for criminal actions • have the maximum protection from abuse permitted by law including restraining or protection orders • get help from community resources www.alberta.ca
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