How Can I Help Someone Else?
Call us yourself to talk directly with an advocate to learn about how you can best help. Encourage her to call an organization that can help:
- Noah Project: 1.800.444.3551 or 325.676.7107
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-S.A.F.E.
The Noah Project's Hotline
Our hotline is not just for victims. If you are worried about someone else, the hotline advocate will:- Talk to you about identifying abuse
- Give you some tips for talking to the person you're worried about
- Provide information about safety planning
- Provide referrals and information about available resources
- We can give you information about how you can help your loved one. We cannot extend services to victims through a third party, so in order to get help, victims must contact us directly.
Don't Judge
Many victims don't reach out to others because they fear judgment over what is happening to them or they fear being judged for not leaving. Remember that what is happening to her is not her fault. Don't Give Up! Leaving an abusive relationship permanently is a death-defying act that usually takes a long time and requires a lot of hard work. Abuse is about control; most victims are tied to their abusers by legal, family, and financial ties that take time to break. Most victims of family violence will return to the relationship more than six times before finally leaving for good.Educate Yourself
Learn about family violence, the barriers to leaving a dangerous relationship, and the resources and options that are available in your area.
Keep a journal of any abuse that you see. Include the time, date, what happened, and the names of any other witnesses. Whenever it's safe, encourage the victim to tell the truth to doctors and medical professionals, make police reports, and contact the local shelter. Remember that involving people and authorities outside the relationship may increase her danger level. Encourage, but don't pressure.
