February Is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

February is often associated with love, but it’s also an important time to talk about healthy love. Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is a reminder that respect, safety, and boundaries should always be part of any relationship; especially for teens who are still learning what love looks like.

Teen dating violence can include emotional, verbal, physical, or digital abuse, and it often starts with small red flags like controlling behavior, jealousy, pressure, or isolation from friends and family. These signs are sometimes mistaken for “care” or “love,” which is why education and open conversations matter.

This month, we encourage teens to learn the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships, speak up when something doesn’t feel right, and know that help is always available. Love should never hurt, scare, or silence you. Awareness saves lives; and every teen deserves a love that feels safe, supportive, and respectful.

P.S. Be on the lookout for our new book, Growing Through It, Bestie created to support, encourage, and remind teens they’re not alone on their journey.