As a friend or family member of someone who is being abused, you can be a source of support and safety.

You may also be affected by someone else’s abuse.  You can call Susan B. Anthony Project for more information and to receive counseling for yourself.  There’s always a trained counselor ready to talk at 860.482.7133.

Here are some tips for helping your friend or relative:

• Listen, be supportive, and acknowledge that they are in a very difficult, scary situation.  Let them know the abuse is not their fault.
• Be non-judgemental.  Do not criticize their decisions.  Understand this is a very difficult time and the dynamics of domestic violence and sexual assault can be very complicated.
• Encourage them to call Susan B. Anthony Project 860.482.7133 or another professional who can be helpful.
• Continue to be supportive even when a crisis seems to be over.

For more information, visit thehotline.org.