4 Steps for Survivors

Recognize

Domestic violence can happen to anyone regardless of employment or educational level, race or ethnic background, religion, marital status, physical ability, age, or sexual orientation; domestic violence is a serious problem that has been happening for centuries. In the U.S., domestic violence affects millions of people each year, most often women. You are not alone!

Believe

Domestic violence is not your fault. If you are being abused by your spouse or partner, you may feel confused, afraid, angry and/or trapped. All of these emotions are normal responses to abuse. You may also blame yourself for what is happening. But no matter what others might say, you are never responsible for your partner's abusive actions. Batterers choose to be abusive. No one deserves to be battered.

Identify

Resources are available to help you. If you believe you are in immediate danger, call 911 or call The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) (TDD Line: 1-800-787-3224).

If you are concerned about your relationship or have left an abusive relationship and need counseling or legal help, call LOOKING FOR MY SISTER at 313-861-3221.

Plan

For you and your children's safety. Without help, domestic violence often continues and gets more severe over a period of time. It can sometimes become deadly. To increase your safety:

• Tell others you trust such as co-workers, friends, family, and neighbors.
• Memorize emergency phone numbers such as 911 for local police, crisis hot lines, and your personal support people.
• Identify escape routes and places to go to quickly if you need to flee from an unsafe situation.
• Talk with your children about what they should do if a violent incident occurs or if they are afraid.
• Prepare and hide an emergency bag with money, checkbook, extra car keys, medicine, and important papers such as birth certificate, social security cards, immigration papers and medical records. Keep them somewhere safe such as with a trusted friend.
• Trust your instincts. If you think you or your children are in immediate danger, you probably are. Get to a safe place as soon as possible.