Choosing Adoption in Missouri: Being In A Domestic Violent, Abusive Relationship
If you are in an abusive relationship, know you are not alone, and there is help. If you have an unplanned pregnancy, you are not alone, and help is here. If you are in both these situations, know Adoption Choices of Missouri is here for you. We understand this can all be confusing and difficult; we want to be by your side, supporting you. We know that choosing adoption might seem difficult given your current situation, but just know that we at Adoption Choices of Missouri are ready to help you in any way possible.
Domestic Violence Aid: 9-1-1
If you find yourself pregnant and in a domestic, violent, abusive relationship, know that you are not alone. You can always call 9-1-1 whenever you feel you are in danger. If you are unable to speak candidly with the 9-1-1 operator, you can always speak in code, such as asking for a pizza and being insistent on needing that pizza at your address as soon as possible. A smart operator will understand what you need and send help as soon as possible.
If you need to use non-verbal communication, there are options for dialing 9-1-1, which can be found on many domestic violence advocacy sites. Many of these sites are built so you can leave quickly if you are afraid of being watched and if you feel it is necessary.
Domestic Violence: Missouri Women’s Shelters
Suppose you need to be in protective custody for yourself, your baby, and any other children you may have. In that case, you can contact a Missouri women’s shelter, such as the Missouri Coalition Against Domestic Violence. There is often free legal aid through these centers if you need assistance gaining a restraining order or protective order. Remember, there is nothing wrong with asking for help. We know this is scary, but you do not need to live in fear.
In An Abusive Relationship? Know You Are Not Alone
If you are in an abusive relationship, what you need to know, above all, is it is not your fault. Some people have their own demons that they take out on others and use violence to cope. That does not excuse what they do by any means. You need to know that regardless of what they do, you do not deserve it. You do not deserve to be hurt by someone who is supposed to love you. No one deserves to be hurt that way.
Unplanned Pregnancy
If you are in a domestic violence situation and are now unexpectedly pregnant, you have options. If you do not wish to terminate your pregnancy or raise your child yourself, whether it be in the situation you are currently in or not, you can always choose to place your baby up for adoption. Adoption Choices of Missouri is a great organization that can help you look through and examine your options.
Placing Your Baby Up For Adoption In Missouri
If you choose to place your baby up for adoption, your Missouri adoption agency can help you find somewhere safe to stay throughout and following your pregnancy. Your agency can also help you with any financial issues, such as utilities, rent, and medical expenses during your pregnancy.
Missouri Adoption: Medical & Mental Health Aid
If you need medical care during your pregnancy, your caseworker can help with this too. This applies to your mental health, as well as your physical health. Whether you need counseling help due to your living situation, postpartum depression, or adoption, help is here. Your assigned caseworker can offer on-site aid or off-site aid from therapists we have relationships with nearby.
Missouri Adoption: Legal Aid
Your assigned caseworker can connect you with a legal representative for anything adoption-related or related to your abusive relationship. Besides restraining orders, your legal aid and caseworker can help you look into removing your partner’s rights to your child or in asking them to agree to place your baby up for adoption.
Missouri Adoption & An Abusive Relationship
If you are in a domestically violent relationship, remember there is help. Emergency services and Missouri Women’s Shelters are great resources if you need immediate help. Adoption Choices of Missouri is also available to help you. We are ready to help you with your unplanned pregnancy and help you do whatever you think is best for you and your baby. We will treat your situation, your baby, and you with the utmost respect and care. You can trust us to handle your case with love and care. Contact us today and know that you will be in great hands.
Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800
Meet the author: Carly is a recent graduate of Connecticut College with a dual degree in Psychology and Italian Studies. Graduating Cum Laude with honors in both Psychology and Italian departments, Carly has a background in gender-related research through the Connecticut College Psychology Department and Honors Theses Program. When not trying to figure out life or working, Carly is reading historical fiction novels or playing with her black cat, Isabelle.