How can I help a friend or family member if an abusive situation is revealed?
Listen to the woman and believe her. Tell her that the abuse is not her fault, and is not God’s will for her. Dont be afraid to let her know that you are concerned for her safety. Help her recognize the abuse. Tell her you see what is going on and you want to help. Tell her she is not alone and that help is available. Let her know that without intervention, abuse often escalates in frequency and severity over time. Seek expert assistance. Refer her only to specialized domestic violence counseling programs, not to couples counseling. Help her find a shelter, a safe home, or advocacy resources to offer her protection. To suggest that she merely return home places her and her children in real danger. Hold the abuser accountable. Don’t minimize his abusive behavior. Help her to recognize that what is happening is not “normal.” Acknowledge that she is in a very difficult and scary situation. Encourage her strength and courage. Let her know that it is not her fault that she is being abused t
