It's Happening to Someone I Know
I am concerned about someone I know: what does violence look like?
Recognize
Recognize the signs of Domestic Violence. Is someone close to me a victim?
For Example
- Are they missing an unusual amount of work?
- Are they missing appointments?
- Are they isolating themselves from their everyday activities, family and friends?
- Are they showing up with bruises on their body?
- Are they expressing that their partner is showing a lot of control or jealousy?
- Are there signs that their partner is putting them down, hurting them, or making them feel crazy?
Respond: Respond by listening and supporting
- You can check in with them to see how they have been doing, asking if they feel safe.
- You can bring up what you have been noticing and express your concern to them.
- You can listen with empathy and an open mind.
- You can listen to understand and not to give your point of view.
- You can believe them.
- You can avoid victim-blaming comments. (Why don’t you just leave, etc.)
- You can empower them to explore and express what they feel is best for them.
- You can leave an open door for them, while still establishing your own boundaries.