If you know someone who is experiencing domestic abuse, please use this page to guide you in helping him or her. Remember that it is always helpful to listen and be judgment-free if someone is confiding in you about an abusive relationship. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911.

 

Warning signs of abuse:

(Source: National Domestic Violence Hotline)

• Their partner puts them down in front of other people.

• They are constantly worried about making their partner angry.

• They make excuses for their partner’s behavior.

• Their partner is extremely jealous or possessive.

• They have unexplained marks or injuries.

• They’ve stopped spending time with friends and family.

• They are depressed or anxious, or you notice changes in their personality.

 

Resources:

• DomesticShelters.org provides a toolkit, including articles and lists, to identify different types of abuse, how to help, danger assessment tools, and online forums. The toolkit is available for download on at DomesticShelters.org (HERE).

• Tips on creating a safety plan with a friend or family member are available HERE.

• The National Domestic Violence Hotline spells out the warning signs of abuse and how to support and empower someone who is being abused to make their own decisions. 

• Written from the perspective of a survivor, this article gives insight into the fears and experiences that survivors may deal with. A great resource for loved ones!

• The Peaceful Paths helpline is available 24 hours a day, with an advocate available to assist and inform at (352) 377-8255 or toll-free at (800) 500-1119. 

• If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911.