Helpful Resources

Supporting Others

• Learn about the warning signs of abuse, understanding how the power and control operates, and the many reasons individuals may stay with their perpetrator. 

• Create a safe space for conversation and emotional support.

  • Approach in a confidential manner.

  • Start with observations.

  • Listen with zero judgments.

• Encourage the individual to learn the facts and empower themselves.

• Help identify a support network and encourage the individual to seek activities outside the perpetrator.

• If possible, offer transportation or an untracked device to get professional help or legal support.

• Suggest documenting the abuse, describing any words, actions, date, time, injuries, feelings, etc.

• Offer to store important documents or emergency bags.

• Help create a safety plan for escaping the situation. Click here to learn how to create a plan.

Source: The National Domestic Violence Hotline (thehotline.org)

Supporting Yourself

• Learn how to identify abuse, victims, and perpetrators to empower yourself.

• Create healthy boundaries around the perpetrator and their abuse.

• Become an active bystander. Never join in on blaming the victim or excusing the abuser. Defend what is right.

• Practice patience, when a victim is ready, be available to listen.

• Create a trustworthy support system: This can be family, friends, licensed therapists, advocates, or support groups.

• Be prepared for a multitude of outcomes. Have plans in place for the different options.

• Maintain and promote healthy relationships in your own life.

• Self-Care- such as therapeutic practices, exercise, rest, relaxation, animal therapy, expressive arts, or anything you enjoy.

• Mindful Practices; breathing techniques, aromatherapy, meditation, mindfulness.