How Do You Help A Victim Of Domestic Abuse?
Domestic violence is an epidemic problem in the United States. The Department of Health and Human Services reports that each year, 4.8 million women experience are assaulted or raped by an intimate partner. In fact, victims’ husbands, former husbands and boyfriends are responsible for nearly 30 percent of female homicides. If you suspect a friend or family member is a victim of intimate partner violence (IPV), simple steps that you can take to help her may help save her life. Listen attentively and offer non-judgmental support. Intimate partner violence is toxic not only to the body but to one’s mental health and self-esteem as well. Remind your friend that domestic violence is never the fault of the victim. Avoid the temptation to say angry things about the abuser–this may only alienate a woman who is already feeling vulnerable and cause her to rethink her decision to confide in you. Confront your friend if you have strong reason to suspect abuse. Do so in a gentle, non-judgmental wa
