How to Help Others
If you suspect someone you know is being abused it may help to express you concern to the person in order to let them know you care and are a support for them. Victims of domestic abuse usually feel depressed, drained, scared, ashamed, embarrassed, and confused. Victims have been isolated from family and friends and need to know there is help and can count on someone for support.
Becoming a victim of domestic abuse is difficult. Consider these tips when speaking to someone who is possibly being abused:
- Express concern
- Listen attentively
- Validate their feelings/situations
- Offer to help
- Support their decision
- Do not judge them
- Do not pressure them
- Do not give advice if you are not asked
- Encourage them to seek professional help when necessary (law enforcement and social service agencies)
Help and Resources
Center Against Family Violence
http://www.cafv.org/
915-593-7300
El Paso Police Department
http://www.ci.el-paso.tx.us/police/default.asp
915-832-4400
Texas Council on Family Violence
http://www.tcfv.org/
The Nationals Women Health Information Center
800-994-9662 TDD: 888-220-5446
http://www.womenshealth.gov/
The National Domestic Violence Hotline
1.800.799.SAFE (7233) 1.800.787.3224 (TTY)
http://www.thehotline.org/
The National Abuse Dating Hotline
1-866-331-9474 | 1-866-331-8453 TTY
http://www.loveisrespect.org/
Love Good Bad Ugly (Teen Dating)
http://lovegoodbadugly.com/