February 2026

Recognizing Teen Dating Violence and Encouraging Safe Relationships

February is recognized nationally as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month — a time dedicated to increasing understanding about healthy relationships and raising awareness about the warning signs of abuse. Adolescence is a formative period for learning how to build trust, communicate effectively, and establish boundaries. Providing teens and families with clear information and supportive resources is an important step in promoting long-term emotional and relational well-being.

Teen dating violence does not always present as physical harm. It can be emotional, digital, verbal, or controlling in nature, and it often begins subtly. Recognizing early warning signs can help prevent unhealthy patterns from escalating.

Why This Matters

Unhealthy behaviors can be easy to dismiss at first. What may seem like jealousy, intense attention, or “just caring” can sometimes be early indicators of control.

Pay attention to how a relationship makes you feel.

Unhealthy relationship warning signs may include:

Feeling afraid to upset your partner
Being pressured to share passwords, location, or private photos
Constant checking in, texting, or monitoring
Isolation from friends, family, or activities you enjoy
Put-downs, jealousy, or guilt disguised as “love”
Feeling anxious, drained, or like you’re walking on eggshells

If a relationship consistently causes fear, stress, or a loss of independence, those concerns should be taken seriously.

What Healthy Relationships Do Include

Healthy relationships are built on respect, trust, communication, and boundaries.

They include:

Respect for boundaries and personal space
Feeling safe to say “no” without fear
Encouragement of friendships, hobbies, and independence
Honest communication and mutual trust
Support during difficult moments — not control

Healthy relationships foster confidence, safety, and mutual growth.

Safety & Support Tips You Can Share

For Teens

Know the difference between healthy and unhealthy behaviors. Respect, trust, and consent are the foundation of healthy relationships.
Talk to a trusted adult. A parent, teacher, coach, or counselor can help you think through concerns and prioritize safety.
Use anonymous reporting tools such as Safe2Tell (1-877-542-SAFE).
Reach out to crisis lines at any time. You do not need to be in immediate danger to seek support. Hotlines are confidential and available 24/7.

For Parents & Caregivers

Begin conversations early about respect, boundaries, and consent.
Be aware of digital behaviors. Controlling texts or pressure to share passwords can be early warning signs.
Encourage strong friendships and support networks outside of romantic relationships.
Connect with local advocacy or counseling services if you notice concerning changes in mood, school performance, or social withdrawal.

Free & Confidential Crisis Support

Hilltop Latimer House

Provides support to survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault, including a 24/7 crisis line, emergency shelter, advocacy, and counseling. Support is free and confidential.

24-Hour Crisis Line: 877-543-9520
Serves Mesa, Montrose, Delta, and Ouray counties.

Grand Junction Police Department – Victim Services Unit
Offers crisis support, referrals, and advocacy for victims of crime, including dating violence or abuse situations.
Victim Services: 970-549-5290

Colorado Department of Human Services
Provides links to statewide resources, including:

National Teen Dating Abuse Hotline: 1-866-331-9474
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

Promoting awareness about teen dating violence is an essential part of supporting adolescent health and development. By fostering open dialogue, modeling healthy relationship behaviors, and sharing accessible resources, we can help teens build relationships grounded in respect, safety, and trust.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, confidential support is available. Seeking help is a proactive and responsible step toward ensuring safety and well-being.