Recognizing Abuse in Others and How to Help
How Do I Know If My Friend is Being Abused?
- She often has unexplained injuries and her excuses don’t make sense.
- He acts extremely jealous, especially of men.
- She is quiet when he is around and seems afraid of making him angry.
- She stops seeing her friends and family members, becoming isolated from others.
- She often makes plans then cancels them at the last minute.
- He controls finances, behavior, plans and friends.
- You see him lose his temper, striking or breaking or throwing objects.
- When she is with him, he acts very controlling and constantly insults her.
- She has casually mentioned his violent behavior but laughed it off as a joke.
- The children are frequently fighting, or very quiet and withdrawn and won’t talk about it.
If You Know Someone Who Is Being Abused:
- Be there to listen without judgment.
- Help them identify resources.
- Reassure them it is not their fault, that they don’t deserve to be abused.
- Let them know how afraid you are for them.
- Help them build their self-esteem by reminding them of their positive qualities.
- Help them develop a safety plan for home, work, and in public places.
Internet Safety Tips - How to Cover Your Tracks
YWCA-Abused Women's Services Crisis Hotline: 901-725-4277 |
