Four Ways to Help Survivors or Victims Heal this Domestic Violence Awareness Month

1. Educate Yourself and Others

Understanding domestic violence complexities is essential. Take the time to educate yourself about the different types of abuse—physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and digital. Local resources like local shelters and assistance providers in your community provide valuable information. Share what you learn with your social circles to foster awareness and empathy. The more we know, the better equipped we are to support those in need.

2. Listen Without Judgment

Leaving an abusive relationship is a highly personal decision but all survivors benefit from having trusted people during this time. Since those experiencing abuse are often isolated by their abusers, it’s imperative to know how to support survivors on the path to safety. One of the most powerful things you can offer a domestic violence survivor is support. Here are some ways to support a survivor:

• Create a safe space for them to share their experiences without fear of judgment or blame.
• Let them express their feelings while validating their emotions.
• Many victims feel isolated and unheard; your willingness to listen can make a significant difference in their healing journey.
• Help them create a safety plan.

3. Encourage Professional Support

Domestic violence survivors are often left with emotional scars that outlast the physical effects. Some are at an increased risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, or other stress-related mental health issues.

Counseling and support from family and friends can help survivors break the isolation of domestic violence. Healing from domestic violence often requires professional intervention. In counseling sessions, survivors can share their feelings, thoughts, and fears in a safe and confidential environment. Counselors are non-judgmental third-party advisors who listen and assist survivors in working through their traumas.

In addition to coping with their remaining anxiety, trauma specialists can also help survivors relieve stress and find ways to cope.

Encourage your friend or family experiencing domestic violence to seek help from counselors, therapists, or support groups that specialize in trauma and abuse. You can assist by researching local resources, offering to accompany them to appointments, or helping them find online support communities. Professional guidance can provide victims with the tools they need to rebuild their lives.

4. Raise Awareness and Advocate for Change

Remember, it is important to support survivors and victims of domestic violence not just during this awareness month, but every day. Together, we can help their healing journey. Here are some ways you can raise awareness about domestic violence and support survivors:

• Participate in local events.
• Donate your old electronics or hold a fundraiser in your community to support survivors.
• Request print materials or download digital materials to share with your networks.
• Engage in social media campaigns and conversations using the hashtag #HealHopeCenter.
• Write to your local representatives about the importance of funding for shelters and support services. By raising awareness and pushing for policy changes, you contribute to a larger movement that seeks to end domestic violence and protect survivors.
• Educate yourself and others on domestic violence statistics and issues to better support survivors. By speaking out and taking action we can help create a safer and more supportive society for all.

For more ideas to raise awareness in your community, visit our partners, the Domestic Violence Awareness Project (DVAP) for more ideas.