Are you treating a partner, ex partner or family member in a way that's hurting them?
Any threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) between adults over the age of 16.
To prevent the cycle of abuse from repeating itself, here are some immediate ways to cool down:
Leave the scene
No matter what the situation is – leave. Go somewhere safe and peaceful to calm down, collect your thoughts, and consider the consequences of your actions.
Slow down – cool down
Focus on something else. Take a brisk walk, listen to music, or exercise.
Talk
Talk to someone outside of the situation such as a counsellor at a helpline. Tell them you need to cool down and that it helps to have someone to listen to you.
Tell a friend
Tell a friend you trust what you're doing to slow down and cool down. Remember that alcohol and drugs get in the way of making responsible decisions.
Get help
Take responsibility for changing your own behaviour. Make contact with a group or service who can help you with this.
It takes strength and courage to be able to take responsibility for your actions and to stop blaming others.