How to Get Help for Verbal Abuse

Abuse comes in many forms, with verbal abuse being one of the most common. Abuse is wrong, no matter what type of abuse it is. It is important to get a support system in place so that you can learn to stand up for yourself and take control of the situation. There is help for you as the victim, as well as help for the abuser. Do not think you have to suffer abuse.

Things You'll Need

• Support system
• Safe place to go
• List of emergency contacts

Instructions

Plan of action

1. Believe in yourself. Part of being verbally abused is having your self-esteem taken from until you think you are worthless, and this is far from the truth.

2. Get a support system in place. Many people feel they are alone, therefore, they do not seek help when they need it. Talk to people you are close to such as family and friends. You want people who support you and will be there for you if and when you need them. Don't be afraid to ask for help. People will be there for you regardless of what you may think. Part of being verbally abused is that the abuser takes away your feeling of being secure, making you feel as if they are the only one you can turn to, and that is not true. That is just their way of keeping control over you.

3. Find support groups. Check with local religious institutions, hospitals and mental-health facilities for a list of active groups in your area. They can help you find the location closest to you as well as transportation to and from the groups. Generally these groups are held at various times throughout the week.

4. Find out where you can go to be safe, where the abuser will not be able to find you or be allowed to enter. Most areas offer safe havens for people being abused and will take in you and your children if you are in fear from an abuser. One place for people in abusive relationships is CASA (Center for Spouse Abuse), which offers a complete support system for those in an abusive relationship. They offer emergency shelter to protect the victim and the victim's children, as well as counseling, legal aid and crisis intervention. For more information on a CASA site near you, call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

5. Look into counseling. Do not let insurance, or lack thereof, stand in your way. Most often, counseling for abuse is free, and everything is kept strictly confidential. Check with your doctor, churches and mental-health facilities for a list of abuse counseling and support groups.

6. Make a list of emergency contacts. This will be a list of people you can rely on to be there for moral support. The list can include family, friends, people at your place of worship, neighbors and local authorities. You will be surprised to find out there are many people you can turn to in your time of need.