How to help yourself if you are a domestic violence victim

HOW TO LET YOUR FRIENDS HELP YOU

If you are a domestic violence victim, let people who care help you.

Confide in someone your trust.

If you have a friend or relative who cares about your safety, tell them about the abuse. Sharing a burden with someone makes it lighter.
Don’t get talked into taking action that doesn’t feel right to you.

You are the only one who knows if you are ready to leave your relationship, go to the police, or seek emergency shelter.
Leave an emergency stash with a friend.

This could include extra money, a set of car keys, a change of clothes, and copies of important documents that may come in handy in an emergency. Think of what you might need if you have to leave your home in a hurry.
Ask a friend to accompany you to important appointment.
Make sure a trusted friend knows your safety plan.

SAFETY MEASURES WHILE YOU ARE IN AN ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP

Have important phone numbers memorized.

Have a list of phone numbers of friends and relatives whom you can call in an emergency. If your children are old enough, teach them important phone numbers, including when and how to dial 911.
Keep change for pay phones with you at all times.
Open your own bank account.
Stay in touch with friends.
Leave a set of keys, extra money change of clothes with relatives (birth certificates, bank books, passports, social security card, lease agreement, insurance papers, etc.)

SAFETY AFTER YOU LEFT THE RELATIONSHIP

Change the locks.
Install as many security features as possible in your home.
Inform neighbors that your former partner is not welcome on the premises.
If you have children, make sure people who care for your children are clear about who does and does not have permission to pick up your children.
Obtain a restraining order.
Let your co-workers/ boss know of your situation.
Avoid stores, banks and business you used when you were living with the batterer.
Get counseling- attend workshops join support groups.