Help Stop Intimate Partner Abuse
For Domestic Violence Awareness month we created a graphic you can easily share on social media so that victims of partner violence know that they’re not alone, and that help is available. Abuse often isn’t obvious and it’s likely that somebody you know is in an abusive relationship even though there aren’t clear signs. Share it in case anybody you know needs it. Then read guidelines, below, on how to help a friend or loved one who you suspect or know is in an abusive relationship.
If somebody you care about is in an abusive relationship you can’t fix it, but you can be a source of support that helps that person break free when he or she is ready. Here are a few guidelines on how to help:
Do offer support.
Let them know that you are there for them now, and will be in the future—with both tactical support and friendship—if they decide to leave the abuser. Reassure them that the abuse is not their fault.
Don’t judge.
Show you understand that leaving the relationship isn’t easy, and that you are still there for them even if they aren’t ready to leave, or if they leave but then return to the abuser.
Do share resources.
Direct the person to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, a confidential source of advice and support. The hotline offers specific advice for friends and family of those in abusive relationships.
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