Both men and women may be abused by their partners, but the Mayo Clinic states females are the most frequent victims. Domestic battery is the leading cause of injury to females between ages 15 and 44, according to registered nurse Theodora Aggeles of Charity Guide. Many women are reluctant to leave an abuser for a variety of emotional and financial reasons. There are ways to help them when they're ready to escape.
Step 1
Maintain contact with the woman. Many abusers force their wives to cut ties to family members and friends. Be understanding about this, and don't take offense if she backs away from your friendship. Let her know you are always available if she needs you, no matter how long it has been since your last contact.
Step 2
Provide a safe place if the woman needs to store items to facilitate an escape. It often takes time and planning before she can flee, explains the Mayo Clinic. Let her store clothing, important documents, extra keys, prescription drugs and other essential items at your home so she can retrieve them when needed when fleeing to a shelter or other secure place.
Step 3
Allow the woman to use your computer and telephone to research escape options and make plans. The Mayo Clinic warns many abusers monitor phone calls and install spyware on home computers to control their spouses and prevent them from getting away. An abused woman needs a secure way to set up her escape.
Step 4
Tell the woman you are available to help 24 hours a day. She may need to escape abruptly if her life is in danger or if she sees a sudden opportunity. Reassure her you will be there for her if that happens.
Step 5
Offer to watch the woman's children or pets if needed. Many women are reluctant to leave an abuser because kids or animals are involved. You can ease the way for your friend if you help her by providing a safe haven for her youngsters or pets.
Tips and Warnings
- Some abused women are reluctant to admit the problem. Don't push them, even if you are certain abuse is taking place. Aggeles recommends simply saying that no one deserves to be treated badly by a partner. This often makes an abused woman think about her situation, and she may reach out to you once she's ready to confront it.
- Have a safety plan if your friend takes shelter at your home. A domestic violence shelter is the best place for her if her partner knows where you live and that she might be with you. Shelters have protective security measures in place. If she cannot get to one, watch for suspicious activity around your home, and call the police at the first sign of any trouble while she is with you.
Member Comments