For Victims of Domestic Violence

You are not alone!  You may be feeling depressed, angry, sad, isolated, frustrated, or anxious. 
All of these feelings are normal.  Below, we will discuss some things you can do.

1.  Think first of the safety of you and your children (see the Personal Safety Plan)

2. Pictures are worth a thousand words.  Get a relative, friend, or DV program to take pictures of bruises and marks.  Make sure photos are signed & dated by the person taking the pictures as evidence.

3.  Think through your options.  You can take control of your situation by deciding to stay with or leave your abuser.  You know best if you feel safe enough to stay or leave. 

4.  You may wish to press legal charges.  If so, please see our Legal Issues & Resources page.  OR, you may decide to accept shelter from your local DV program.  Call your local DV program for more detailed shelter information.

5.  If you decide to stay or leave, we suggest counseling.  In DV situations it is best to have individual sessions in the beginning so that you can speak openly and honestly with your counselor.  Then you can progress to marital/joint counseling if you desire.
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6.  How is this violent relationship effecting your children?  See our Effects of DV on Children page.