Worried About Domestic Violence? What You Can Do Today

Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects a lot of people in the United States. What’s even worse is that domestic violence isn’t just about the adults involved – it often escalates and brings children into the mix. Even if they aren’t hurt physically, domestic violence can damage children emotionally in very severe ways.

While you may not be able to fix domestic violence overnight, there are some things you can do to prevent it from escalating and getting to your children. Use these tips to protect yourself and your family from the dangers of domestic violence.

Have a Plan

When you’re worried about domestic violence all the time it can be hard to think straight. In fact, many people who are facing abuse start behaving erratically themselves simply because they’re afraid of what might happen to them if they behave or speak a certain way. Sadly, that’s the nature of abusive relationships.

However, you don’t have to stand for all of that abuse in your home, and you can leave when you’re looking at an abusive situation. That is going to mean making a plan about where you’re going to go, especially if you have children who need to stay in school and maintain a basic routine.

One of the best things you can do if you’re worried about domestic violence is to talk with a friend or family member in your area to see if you can stay with them when you’re in trouble. You’ll need to tell them they may not get much notice because of the situation.

Once you find a place to stay when you’re in trouble you need to keep a bag packed so you can leave quickly. Make sure your bag contains clothes for work, cash and essential toiletries.

Use a Domestic Violence Program

A domestic violence intervention program isn’t something most people want to get involved in, and the person causing the violence is most likely to resist going through these sorts of programs. However, if they want to build a healthy relationship with you and the family as a whole, these programs are essential.

Tell your abuser that you won’t be seeing him or her until they’ve gone through a program for domestic violence. You’ll both be better off in the long run and your family will be much healthier.