Breaking the Silence: Understanding and Preventing Teen Dating Violence

February 17, 2023

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, a reminder that dating violence is a serious issue among teenagers. Sadly, 1 in 3 U.S. teens (ages 12-18) will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from someone they're in a relationship with before becoming adults. 1


Physical violence, sexual assault, stalking, verbal misuse, and emotional abuse are dating violence indicators. These behaviors can happen in any relationship and to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or popularity. Recognizing the warning signs, such as controlling behavior, excessive jealousy, violent tendencies, emotional immaturity, and isolation from friends and family, is crucial to leaving a relationship.


Dating violence takes three primary forms: physical, psychological/emotional, and financial abuse. 2


Physical Abuse includes:

  • Physical violence or restraint directed at you.
  • Destroying your possessions.
  • Hitting walls, doors, or vehicles.
  • Sexual assault.
  • Physical abuse can sometimes be the most apparent form of dating violence but also the most intimidating. Speaking up can be scary, but holding on to that fear can give the abuser the control they seek.


Psychological and Emotional Abuse usually comes in two forms: making threats and eroding your self-worth.

This kind of abuse can look like this:

  • Publicly embarrassing or humiliating you.
  • Withholding affection.
  • Insulting, putting you down, or ignoring you.
  • Isolating you from your friends and family.


These types of abuse can be more subtle and challenging to recognize. The abuser uses your desire to please and fear of losing the relationship to manipulate you.


Financial Abuse can be a range of behaviors, including:

  • Stealing from you.
  • Using your personal items for themselves.
  • Forcing you to stop working. 


The abuser's goal is to ensure you have no resources to leave them or manage your behavior by forcing you to depend on them.


It's important to remember that you have the right to be in a safe and healthy relationship and never have to feel ashamed or responsible for the abuse you are experiencing. Don't stay silent if you or someone you know is experiencing dating violence. Reach out for help. Local support can be found at the Safe Center and the Family Advocacy Network in Kearney and Willow Rising in Grand Island. 



Collage believes in the importance of developing healthy relationships. So let's work together to break the dating violence cycle. Join the movement and use your voice to raise awareness about teen dating violence.

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.
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