How to Help Women in Abusive Relationships

There are options available for women in abusive relationships.

Abusive relationships are not always easy to spot. Sometimes the abuse is physical and may or may not be obvious. Other times it is emotional abuse, which leaves no mark but is equally scarring. There is a lot of help available for women in abusive relationships, but the first step has to be admitting there is a problem. If you know someone suffering in an abusive relationship it is important to intervene.

Instructions

1. Ask if something is wrong.

   If you suspect a friend is in an abusive relationship, it is important to talk to her about it in private. Do not talk yourself out of it, or think it's not your business or that you perceived something inaccurately.

2. Express concern.

   Go over the things that you have seen to cause concern. Tell her you will listen whenever she is ready to talk and anything said will remain confidential.

3. Listen and validate.

   Allow your friend to vent, explain, or clarify the situation. Remember that women in abusive relationships are often isolated from friends and family, scared, and threatened by their abuser to not talk about it. Be a supportive ear and validate her feelings.

4. Offer help.

   Offer to do what you can, whether offering a place to stay or directing her toward an abused women's center, or anything else she might need.

5. Support her decisions.

   Whether you agree or disagree with her decisions, support her and do what you can to ensure that she will be safe.

Tips & Warnings

• Domestic violence is serious. You cannot afford to stand by and watch it happen. If you know a friend is in an abusive situation, provide the support she needs.

References

• Help Guide

Resources

• Adult Health