HOW TO HELP A FRIEND OR RELATIVE WHO IS A VICTIM OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

• Listen to them. Keep listening and encouraging.
• Tell them that you care about them and don’t want to see them get hurt.
• Do NOT judge. Use statements that focus on their strength, intelligence, and power.
• Do not tell them what to do. Help them explore her options instead.
• Praise her for small steps.
• Stress her right to a healthy, non-violent relationship.
• Convey that the violence is never her fault.
• Encourage her to make a safety plan.
• Do NOT put her down for remaining in the relationship.
• Continue to provide support if she chooses to stay in the relationship.
• Give her information about domestic violence.
• Give her the phone number of a local shelter and/or crisis line.
• Call the police if you witness an assault.