Ways to Help a Victim
Seek education & awareness. Learn about and understand domestic abuse and the impact it has on the victim, the abuser, and you.
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Lend a sympathetic ear. Let her know you care and allow her to confide in you. Be open and listen to her.
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Listen and don't judge. Let her talk. Use acknowledging gestures to let her know you are listening, that you understand.
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Never say “I told you so.” Never make her regret confiding in you or reaching out to you or others for help.
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Let her make her own decisions. Trust her to make the right choices. Let her know you understand and respect her decisions.
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Encourage her to seek help and develop a plan of action. Offer your assistance in any way you can to help her develop a plan.
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Encourage her to reach out to others and avoid isolation. Discuss your concern about her isolation and the need to reach out and reinstate her ties to friends, family, church, etc.
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Help her understand the seriousness of her situation. Express your concern for her and the children’s safety and the importance of not minimizing a threat.
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Assist her in locating resources. Research and provide information for her, such as crisis intervention programs, hotlines, shelters, and emergency facilities.
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Help her, but ensure your own safety as well. Don’t try to intervene or be a hero. Be careful!