{"id":5385,"date":"2020-12-01T19:35:24","date_gmt":"2020-12-02T02:35:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dixonsociety.ca\/?p=5385"},"modified":"2020-12-01T19:35:27","modified_gmt":"2020-12-02T02:35:27","slug":"supporting-someone-experiencing-domestic-violence","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dixonsociety.ca\/supporting-someone-experiencing-domestic-violence\/","title":{"rendered":"Supporting someone experiencing domestic violence"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, fewer than one in five women who had been abused by their spouse reported abuse to police<\/em>.<\/a> This statistic is jarring: it exposes the secrecy that is often part of violence against women and the amount of bravery required to come forward. Moreover, it highlights the importance of being supportive of those who choose to share their abuse. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

 As a loved one of someone who is experiencing domestic violence, it\u2019s important to remember that it is not your responsibility to save<\/em> them. Instead, you can be there to provide support and encouragement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Let her know you\u2019re here for her if she needs you <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Situations of abuse can be isolating, especially with the stigma and pressure women often feel to keep their abuse a secret. The best way to break down this stigma is to listen when they need to talk and let them know that you believe them.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Self-blaming is common for women who are experiencing violence. It\u2019s a coping mechanism that comes with being told that you\u2019re not good enough or that your actions are the cause of the abusive behavior. Lending a supportive ear can help your loved one overcome this. Active listening<\/a> is key. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Coming forward about experiencing abuse can be a very difficult and emotionally-draining task. Providing a safe space for your loved ones is essential in helping them feel comfortable asking for help.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Practice patience <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI am here for you, I believe you, this is not your fault<\/strong>.\u201d <\/em> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

If you know or suspect that someone you care for is experiencing domestic violence, it can be difficult to know what to say or do. It can also be very challenging for victims to share the reality of their situation, so it\u2019s always a good idea to be patient and let them open up on their own terms<\/em>. It might take several tries before they\u2019re able to share everything, but knowing that they have a trustworthy friend can provide a feeling of security that they aren\u2019t experiencing at home.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When your loved one is able open up and share with you, remember that violence against women is complex and cannot be solved in one conversation. They will need to come to terms with their partner\u2019s abusive behavior before they feel comfortable taking any action towards leaving. Although you may be worried about their safety, being forceful will not <\/em>guarantee a situation safe enough to leave. Leaving an abusive relationship is often the most dangerous part of it. Trust that your loved one knows her situation best and will leave when she\u2019s ready. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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There can be many reasons why a person decides to stay in an abusive relationship. Be patient with your loved one and trust that when they are ready to leave, they will.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Offer to provide tangible support <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Some women might not feel comfortable coming forward to ask for help. Because of this, taking the step to provide tangible support might help her get the help she needs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tangible support looks different for everyone and will ultimately depend on what your loved one prefers. Some practical ways to show support could be: <\/p>\n\n\n\n