Note: If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, contact authorities right away.
The recent news coverage about high-profile instances of domestic violence has brought the topic into the spotlight, with horrible details of domestic abusive incidents as an integral part of the story. And they are unfortunately all too common and widespread.
About one out of every four women will experience violence at the hands of an intimate partner in their lifetimes. For men, the number is one in seven. And that does not even include people who are subject to emotional abuse.
If you’re reading this, you’re likely deeply worried about someone you care about. Whether it’s a friend, relative, or colleague, someone you know appears to be in an abusive relationship.
Maybe you just have a gut feeling, maybe you have seen the evidence of abuse, or perhaps your friend has confided in you about the situation. Whatever is going on, thank you for trying to help.
While you have the best intentions to help your friend, it’s vital to approach the situation delicately. People in domestic violence situations may react in ways that you believe are illogical because of the abuse they have endured. Furthermore, without being careful, you could potentially put yourself and your friend in danger.
Before approaching the subject with your friend, think very carefully about when you’ll talk, where you’ll be, and what you’ll say.