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Get Help
In order to get help, YOU must make the first move. Consider the following:
- If you are involved with an abuser, you need to realize that you are never safe.
- Victims often feel that they can make their abuser stop if they do things "right".
- Abusers will sometimes make promises to change their behavior.
- The violence will not just "stop" because you are acting differently.
- More often the abuse gets worse over time.
- It happens more often and gets more violent.
If you live with a batterer, it's time you think about taking care of yourself.
Here are ways to consider getting the help you need:
- If you feel you are in immediate danger, call your
Local Law Enforcement Agency or 911
- Leave the relationship, even if it is only temporary. Call our
Crisis Line for help with arranging shelter for
you and/or any children involved.
- Tell a friend or a close relative what is going on. If necessary, they may be able to make
contact with the proper authorities or service agency.
- Contact the Department of Family Services.
They may be able to refer you to professional counseling or other protective services.
- Contact the Office of Public Assistance.
They can provide information and resources for Food Stamps and Cash ASsistance.
- Check out other Local Resources and information
available on counselors, attorneys, physicians, and social service agencies in your telphone book's
Yellow Pages, or online with search engines such as Google,
Yahoo, or MSN.
- Develop a Safety Plan to protect yourself and any children involved.
A plan will make you more aware of your personal and community resources, and give you clear guidance on what
you should do in a crisis situation.
- Prepare yourself to leave if your situation warrants it. Make the commitment to go if necessary and be
ready to get out at the right time.
- Remember that you are NOT alone! Help is available 24-hours a day.
- Remember that YOU have to make the first move. You have to ask for help. You have to start the change.
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