Human Trafficking Prevention Month

Note: If you feel like you're in immediate danger or know someone who is, please call emergency services or your local law enforcement.

When we hear the words “sex trafficking,” it’s easy for dramatic scenes of kidnapping by strangers and crossing international borders to come to mind, such as those in popular movies like “Taken” and “Sound of Freedom.” While sex trafficking can happen this way, it’s far more common to begin with subtle grooming, a form of emotional manipulation, by a person who claims to care for you. In 2020, 42% of victims were trafficked by a member of their own families, and 39% were recruited through an intimate partner or a marriage proposition. This tactic is even more insidious because the victim may not realize that they’re being trafficked for a very long time and even feel a sense of loyalty to their trafficker.

Our relationships should lift us up, not leave us vulnerable to manipulation and abuse. So, in honor of Human Trafficking Prevention Month, we’re helping our readers spot the red flags that may mean your partner is using you for sex trafficking.

Decoding Manipulation

Traffickers often work to gain their victims’ trust, make them financially dependent, and convince them that sex work is normal and necessary. Once this dynamic is established, the victim ends up cooperating in their own exploitation, thinking they have made the choice to do so independently.

Emotional Manipulation: Your partner might use emotional tricks to keep you under their thumb. Look out for signs like extreme jealousy, guilt-trips that never end, or them trying to cut you off from friends and family.

Love Bombing: At the beginning of a relationship, some people go all-out with affection and gifts to make you feel like you need them in your life. This is a trick to make you bond with and trust them more quickly than you normally would.

Gaslighting: This is when they make you doubt your feelings and sanity. They might brush off your concerns or tell you you're "crazy" for suspecting them. We actually have an entire post about gaslighting, which you’re welcome to read here.

Spotting Signs of Sex Trafficking

Total Control: Traffickers want control over every bit of your life – your money, your routine, and who you see. You may feel like you have zero say in anything.

Isolation: Traffickers aim to cut you off from friends, family, and anyone who might help you. They might discourage you from seeing your loved ones or going to social events.

Pressured into Sex Work: You are being pushed or forced to work in the sex industry against your will. This could include escort services, prostitution, or other sex work. This may seem casual at first, where your partner may pressure you into performing sexual favors for his friends or say you must do this work to help financially support the two of you.

Finances: Traffickers usually have a tight grip on your earnings, making you dependent on them for survival. They may say that you owe them a debt or make up complex financial schemes that make it challenging for you to understand how much you owe.

Abuse: Victims often go through physical violence, emotional torture, and threats if they try to escape the situation.

Tattoos or “Branding”: Some traffickers use tattoos or marks to show that you're "theirs."

Seeking Support

Realizing you're in a manipulative or trafficking situation is a brave step towards taking your life back. You deserve a relationship that respects your freedom, safety, and happiness. If something feels off in your relationship, don't ignore that feeling. If your partner's actions make you uneasy, don't brush it aside. Share your worries with a close friend, family member, or counselor you're comfortable with for an outsider’s perspective. They can be a rock of support.1

Consider reaching out to a helpline or a local organization that's skilled in helping people in your situation. In the U.S., you can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. These professionals can help you make a plan that keeps you safe.

Recognizing manipulation and sex trafficking in a relationship is incredibly difficult, but you're not alone. By understanding the signs, trusting your gut, and reaching out for help, you're taking control of your life and working toward a brighter, safer future. Remember, you deserve happiness and freedom, and there are people and organizations ready to help you reclaim your life.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

What Are My Second-Trimester Pregnancy Options?

July 2, 2025

If you’re in your second trimester (between 13 and 26 weeks of pregnancy), you might be asking, What now? Maybe you just found out you’re pregnant, or maybe this stage of pregnancy is bringing new questions or emotions. No matter where you are in your journey, Collage is here to offer support, information, and a safe place to talk through your options. Understanding Abortion Laws in Nebraska In Nebraska, abortion is not permitted after 12 weeks gestation, with limited exceptions. If you’re considering abortion and believe you may be near or past this point, it’s important to have an ultrasound to confirm how far along you are. If you’re unsure how far along you are, Collage offers no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to provide the medical information you need to understand your next steps. Exploring Your Other Pregnancy Options If abortion is not an option or you’re unsure what’s next, you still have choices. We can talk with you more about each of them. Parenting Parenting might feel like something you’re not ready for or even impossible right now. But with the right support, it may be more achievable than you think. You don’t have to have all the answers today. At Collage, we can connect you with local resources, parenting classes, and support systems that can help you prepare, step by step. You won’t be alone. Adoption If parenting doesn’t seem like the right fit for your current season, adoption is another option that gives you the ability to make a thoughtful plan for your child. Today’s adoption process puts you in control of key decisions, including: Choosing the adoptive family Deciding how much (if any) communication you’d like to have Creating a plan that reflects your goals and values We offer adoption referrals and a confidential space to explore what this might look like for you—no pressure, just information and support. You’re Not Alone Navigating pregnancy in the second trimester can feel heavy, but you don’t have to walk through it by yourself. At Collage, you’ll find compassionate care, medical services, and honest answers to your questions. Schedule your no-cost appointment today. We’re here to listen and support through this process.

My Friends Are Telling Me to Abort, But I'm Not Ready

June 4, 2025

An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with more questions than answers. Especially when friends are urging you to choose abortion, you may be more confused than ever. While their advice might come from care or fear, it’s essential to remember this is your pregnancy, future, and choice. At Collage, we’re here to help you navigate this pressure and find a path that feels right for you so that you can feel informed and confident about your decision. Reach out to us today for no-cost support. Listen to Your Instincts Your friends might be an important part of your life, but your instincts matter most. If abortion doesn’t feel right, take a moment to ask: What’s holding me back? Maybe you’re picturing parenting your child or are curious about adoption. It’s also important to keep in mind that abortion is a serious procedure that your friends may not fully grasp the details of. Physical and emotional risks are involved, making it a more complex decision. Your hesitation is a sign to slow down and explore, not to rush into a choice you’re not ready for. Talk It Out If your friends keep pressing, try a gentle conversation. Let them know you understand they’re worried, you’re not sure about abortion yet. Ask what’s driving their advice. Maybe they’re scared about your finances or future. Maybe they’re simply telling you what they’d do in your situation, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Understanding their side can ease tension without giving in. If they won’t respect your space, set boundaries and let them know you need time to think. You don’t owe them an immediate answer. Find Your Support Surround yourself with people who’ll lift you up, not pull you down. Write down your thoughts or talk to someone neutral. You can find a counselor or even online spaces where you can share your heart with those who won’t push one option over another. Even a trusted family member, a mentor, or a place like Collage can offer perspective without strings. You deserve to make this decision with clear facts and a steady heart, not under pressure. Help is Available If your friends are pushing abortion but you’re not ready, Collage is here with no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and pregnancy options education to help you decide what’s next. Our trained team offers confidential support to explore parenting, adoption, or abortion without pressure. Contact us for a no-cost appointment today. You deserve to choose your own path.

Hiding My Pregnancy: Would Abortion Be an Option?

May 21, 2025

An unexpected pregnancy can flip your world upside down, and the urge to keep it under wraps might hit hard. Maybe you’re thinking abortion could erase the situation quietly.