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Getting Help and Supporting Victims

Domestic Violence Sexual Assault Supporting Victims

Domestic Violence

Emergency Information and Safety Planning

If you are seriously injured and need immediate medical attention, please call 911 immediately. The Women’s Shelter Crisis Hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Tips for Safe Internet & Computer Use

The internet is a great resource for all kinds of information, but if you are the victim of abuse by a spouse or other person, your internet usage could be used against you.

Signs of a Batterer

Think you might be involved with a batterer? Here are some signs to look for: Extreme jealousy, controlling behavior, verbal abuse, threats of violence, blames you and others for problems, attempts to isolate you, putting unrealistic expectations on you and your relationship, cruelty to animals or children, acts of violence, breaking or striking objects.

Sexual Assault

Sexual Assault Crisis Response Program

If you or someone you know has been Sexually Assaulted or Raped, please contact us at our 24 hr Crisis Response Hotline: 866-358-2265.

Supporting Victims

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How can friends and family help?

If a woman who is being abused comes to you for help, you can:

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• Tell her you believe her.

• Listen to her (if she wants to share).

• Thank her for sharing and trusting you with her experience.

• Help her find resources when she is ready.

• Remind her she is not alone.

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Why do women stay? Why don't they leave?

These are common questions but they can cause more harm than good when supporting a survivor. There are many reasons women stay in abusive relationships and it is a complex issue. Here are a few examples of why women stay:

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• Fear. Abusers use fear to control and intimidate their partners.

• Financial Instability. Some women are not able to financially support themselves or their families if they left their abusers.

• Children. Oftentimes, women will put their children's needs and safety above their own.

• Damaged Self-Worth. Abusers are skilled at convincing their partners they are the reason for the problems in the relationship or that their partner is worthless.

• Isolation. Abusers often separate their partners from family and friends, making it difficult for their partner to find outside support.