Domestic violence remains a pressing issue in Belize, with alarming statistics revealing 1,453 reported cases as of August 2025. Among these, over 1,000 involved intimate partner violence, with 1,089 victims identified as women. Young adults aged 25 to 29 were the most affected, highlighting the vulnerability of this demographic to abusive relationships. Sheena Gentle, First Vice President of Haven House, a prominent organization dedicated to supporting survivors and advocating for systemic change, is urging individuals to recognize the early signs of abuse. Haven House has been actively working to improve the handling of domestic violence cases in courts, enhance survivor support, and ensure perpetrator accountability. Gentle outlined five critical red flags indicative of abusive relationships. The first is excessive control, where a partner monitors your movements and demands constant updates. The second is isolation, where a partner criticizes or severs your connections with family and friends. Jealousy and possessiveness, the third sign, involve frequent accusations and overreactions to harmless interactions. Emotional manipulation, including gaslighting, is the fourth red flag, where a partner undermines your confidence by distorting your thoughts and feelings. The final sign is love bombing, where a partner overwhelms you with affection initially, only to later withdraw it and exert pressure. Gentle emphasized that these are just a few of the many warning signs in unhealthy relationships. She advised individuals to trust their instincts and seek support if something feels off. For those in need of assistance, resources are available through Haven House, the National Women’s Commission, and the Gender-Based Violence Unit.