DOMESTIC
ABUSE
It can be difficult to tell the difference between healthy, unhealthy, and abusive relationships. Although no two relationships are the same, there are signs to pay attention to.
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Learn other ways relationships can be unhealthy or abusive by exploring the power and control wheel.
Domestic Abuse Services
Advocacy Services
Domestic violence advocacy services offer confidential support, safety planning, and guidance through legal and medical processes for individuals affected by domestic violence. Advocates empower survivors to access essential resources and create safer environments, aiming to break the cycle of abuse.
Legal Services
Domestic violence legal services provide support to individuals affected by domestic violence.
These services include providing options for survivors to obtain protective orders, navigating family law matters such as divorce and child custody, applying for Judicare, empowering individuals to advocate for their rights in court proceedings, and offering guidance on legal options available. These services aim to empower survivors to navigate the legal system safely and obtain the protection and justice they deserve.
Note: advocates are not lawyers and cannot give legal advice.
Medical/Safety Planning
Domestic Violence Advocates offer medical support by connecting survivors with healthcare services and accompanying them to medical appointments if needed. They also provide safety planning by helping survivors assess their risks, develop strategies to stay safe, and connect them with emergency shelters or resources for temporary housing if necessary.
What are my options if I am in a relationship that is abusive?
Immediately prioritize your safety by finding a safe place away from the abuser. This could involve staying with trusted family or friends, or seeking refuge in a domestic violence shelter where you can receive protection, support, and access to resources. Contact local shelters or the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE) for assistance in finding a safe haven.
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Seek Safety and Support
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Reach Out for Counseling and Therapy
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Explore Legal Options
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Create a Safety Plan
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Connect with Supportive Services
Reach out to community resources and support services designed for survivors of domestic violence. These may include support groups, advocacy organizations, and hotlines where you can receive emotional support, information, and referrals to additional services such as housing assistance, financial aid, and job training programs. Building a network of support can provide crucial encouragement and resources as you navigate your journey toward healing and independence.
Develop a personalized safety plan to prepare for emergencies and protect yourself from potential harm. This plan may include steps such as documenting incidents of abuse, securing important documents (e.g., identification, financial records), establishing a communication plan with trusted contacts, and identifying safe places to go in case of immediate danger. A safety plan empowers you to take control of your safety and well-being.
Consider legal avenues to protect yourself from further abuse. This could include obtaining a restraining order or protection order against the abuser, which legally prohibits them from contacting or approaching you. Seek guidance from local legal aid services or domestic violence advocates who can assist you in navigating the legal process and understanding your rights.
Seek professional counseling or therapy to address the emotional and psychological impact of the abuse. Counseling can help you process trauma, regain self-esteem, and develop coping strategies for healing and moving forward. Many domestic violence shelters and community organizations offer counseling services tailored to survivors' needs.
What can I do to support someone who is in an abusive relationship?
Listen and Validate
Listen actively and without judgment to their experiences and feelings. Allow them to share at their own pace, and validate their emotions. Domestic violence survivors often feel isolated and may blame themselves; reassurance that the abuse is not their fault can be crucial. Show empathy and understanding, and let them know you believe and support them.
Offer Practical Support
Provide practical assistance based on their needs and comfort level. This could involve helping them research local resources such as shelters, counseling services, and legal aid. Offer to accompany them to appointments or assist with childcare or transportation if needed. Respect their decisions and autonomy while offering tangible support that can ease their burden.
Encourage and Empower
Encourage them to prioritize their safety and well-being. Help them create a safety plan that includes steps to take in an emergency, safe places to go, and important contacts. Offer reassurance that seeking help is a brave step towards reclaiming their life. Empower them to make decisions about their situation, whether it involves seeking professional help, reporting the abuse, or making plans for the future.
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