JOY FEELINGS MAGAZINE December 2015 | Page 223

to. You can’t force your partner to alter their behavior if they don’t believe they’re wrong.  Focus on your own needs. Are you taking care of yourself? Your wellness is always important. Watch your stress levels, take time to be with friends, get enough sleep. If you find that your relationship is draining you, consider ending it.  Connect with your support systems. Often, abusers try to isolate their partners. Talk to your friends, family members, teachers and others to make sure you’re getting the emotional support you need. Remember, our advocates are always ready to talk if you need a listening ear.  Think about breaking up. Remember that you deserve to feel safe and accepted in your relationship. TOMAS ROBERT LINDAHL FRS FMedSci (born 28 January 1938) is a Swedish-born British scientist specialising in cancer research. JOY FEELINGS | DECEMBER ISSUE 223