According to the Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence, domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women in the United States who are between the ages of 15 and 44 years old. They also report that one in three women in the world are involved in an abusive relationship. Although many people think that relationship abuse is not the type of thing that can happen in their lives, the fact is that more women are involved in these abusive relationships than ever before. Fortunately, there are resources for women who are looking for help in coping with or getting out of such a relationship.
Step 1
Recognize the abuse. HelpGuide.com says that recognizing an abusive relationship is the first step in dealing with it, as things can often escalate from simple threats or insults into a full-scale verbally, physically or sexually abusive relationship. If you fear your mate and feel like you have to tip-toe around him to avoid confrontation, you may want to take a closer look at your relationship.
Step 2
Tell somebody. The first person you tell doesn't have to be a therapist or a police officer. Talk to your parents, your best friend, even your neighbor about the fact that you are being abused in your relationship. Reporting abuse to the authorities is often intimidating for the victims of abusive relationships, but telling someone without authority may help you feel braver and more ready to take the next steps in getting your life back together.
Step 3
Develop a safety plan. Stanford University recommends creating a safety plan, which outlines just what is to be done in the event that you have to leave suddenly. The plan should include what things you will bring, transportation and lodging.
Step 4
Decide whether or not the relationship is worth trying to save. For many people, the issue of abuse is not enough to justify leaving, especially when it would result in ending a marriage. Take a real look at your relationship and consider whether or not your mate can change. If so, you should be able to talk to him about the problem and develop a plan to solve it without resorting to violence or verbal abuse.
Step 5
Get help. If you decide to stay with your mate, get professional help for both of you. If you decide to leave, look into counseling for yourself. Abusive relationships can leave emotional scars that can make future relationships difficult. With the help of a professional counselor or therapist you may be able to get your life back if both of you are truly committed to making things work.
Step 6
Get a restraining order, if necessary. Oftentimes, leaving your mate or asking him to get help for his abusive tendencies can result in even more abuse. If you decide to leave your home, consider getting a restraining order or personal protection order that prevents your abuser from being able to contact or hurt you in the future.
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