Seeing a friend or loved one in an abusive situation is challenging and you may not know how to respond. While you feel like you need to “save them” it’s important to understand abuse is complex. Here are some ways to support domestic violence victims:

• Do not judge him/her.
• Talk to him/her and help them open up. You may have to try several times before they confide in you. Try to be direct and start by saying something like, “I’m concerned about your safety…”
• Listen and believe what they tell you. Too often people do not believe what they disclose about the abuse. Remember, abusers can look like wonderful people in public.
• Reassure the victim the abuse is not their fault and you are there for them.
• Focus on supporting them and building their self-confidence.
• Leaving takes a great deal of strength and courage. An abuse victim often faces huge obstacles such as nowhere to go, no money, and no one for support.
• Don’t tell him/her to leave or criticize them if they stay. They have to make that decision in their own time.
• Acknowledge his/her strengths and frequently remind him/her that they are coping well with a challenging and stressful situation.
• Know your community resources where he/she can get help, and help them with that.

Peace River Center Victim Services provides free and confidential services. We have two domestic violence shelters and 24-hour domestic violence hotlines:

• 863.386.1167Hardee/Highlands Counties
• 863.413.2700 Polk County:

Many do not realize, Peace River Center also provides domestic violence services, including safety planning, to individuals in the community. Even if a victim does not want to leave their home, they can receive help. Our domestic violence and victim outreach services are available by calling 863.413.2708.