Interpersonal violence (IPV) refers to physical, sexual, or emotional abuse by one person over another through various means such as threats, isolation, or economic control. Victims often stay with their abusers due to fear of further violence, love and hope for the abuser, loss of identity and independence, shame, and cultural or family expectations of normalcy. Sexual violence encompasses rape, unwanted sexual contact, abuse, and molestation, which can cause long-term trauma. Those who experience IPV or sexual assault are more likely to misuse drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism. National and local resources are available to help victims.