🛑 Let’s Call It What It Is: Strangulation Is an Attempt to Kill.
It is not a loss of control. It is the ultimate act of control.
Strangulation is not a “heated moment.”
It’s not a “fight that went too far.”
It is not “choking.”
Let’s be absolutely clear:
Strangulation is putting your hands around someone’s throat and squeezing with force — with the intent to silence, terrify, and yes, potentially kill.
It’s one of the most lethal forms of physical violence.
And yet, far too many people — including survivors — don’t realize just how dangerous it is.
💔 What Actually Happens During Strangulation:
- Oxygen is cut off from the brain.
- Blood flow is blocked.
- The voice box can be crushed.
- Internal injuries may occur — even if there are no visible bruises.
Unconsciousness can occur in as little as 10 seconds.
Brain damage can occur within minutes.
And death? Not far behind.
This is not an accident.
This is a calculated choice to dominate and control.
🧠 The Psychology of Someone Who Strangles
The person who puts their hands around your throat and squeezes is not “just angry.”
They are dangerous.
They are showing you exactly who they are.
Strangulation is an act of psychological and physical terrorism — a warning shot.
It says:
“I have the power to end you. Don’t forget it.”
This act is not about passion or love gone wrong.
It is about power, possession, and the desire to dominate another human being completely.
It is often done by those who:
- Appear calm or even charming in public
- Use manipulation, gaslighting, and control behind closed doors
- Need to feel powerful at all times — and resort to violence when their control is threatened
- Often escalate over time — from verbal abuse to physical dominance
And chillingly, many will act as if nothing happened afterward — minimizing the incident, blaming the victim, or pretending it was no big deal. This is classic abuser behavior.
⚠️ Strangulation Is a Predictor of Homicide
Research shows that if a partner has strangled you once, your risk of being killed by them increases by 700%.
That is not a typo. 700%.
Even if you survived it, even if they swear they’ll never do it again — this is a huge red flag.
Strangulation is one of the most serious forms of domestic abuse.
💬 Survivors Often Don’t Report It — and Here’s Why:
- It happens without leaving visible marks
- They’re confused, in shock, or dissociated afterward
- The abuser plays it down or convinces them they overreacted
- Language gets confused — “choking” is used instead of “strangulation,” softening the reality
But it is real.
It is serious.
And it is a crime.
💡 If this has happened to you — even once — please know:
You are not overreacting.
You are not crazy.
You are not weak.
You are in real danger.
And you deserve protection, support, and a life free of fear.
Reach out. Document it. Talk to someone who understands.
Because this isn’t love — it’s a warning.
