Ways to Support Someone Impacted by Abuse

Big or small- it takes all of us doing our part to support someone impacted by abuse. Those who have experienced or been impacted by domestic violence and child abuse are often isolated by their abusers- making it difficult to ask for help.

We can all take steps to let everyone know that they are loved and that they deserve safe relationships. Here are some things you can do to support those who have been impacted by abuse:

  • Check in with a loved one

    • Be supportive, listen, and remind them abuse is not their fault.

    • Remember, there are a number of barriers and reasons why someone stays in an abusive relationship.

    • What matters most is that our loved ones know we love them, unconditionally, and will support whatever decision(s) they make.

    • Click here for more tips and suggestions.

  • Become a donor

    • Give a one-time gift or become a monthly donor.

    • Donate an item from our Wish List.

    • Host a third-party fundraiser, a cellphone drive, or other event with your community.

  • Follow Journey Center on social media

  • Have a conversation with a friend or family member

    • What makes a relationship healthy or unhealthy?

    • How would you know if someone you cared about was in an unhealthy relationship?

    • How do you model safe, healthy relationships?

  • Learn the red flags of abuse

    • Abusive behaviors don't happen overnight and can sometimes be hard to spot.

    • Is your partner jealous? Are they possessive and controlling? Do they isolate you from friends, family, and your community? Blame you for their actions?

    • These are all red flags that you may be in an unhealthy or abusive relationship.

    • Learn more here.

  • Know the signs of a healthy relationship

    • One built on trust, respect, honesty, equality, and support.

    • Relationships are supposed to be fun! They should make you feel happy, loved, and safe!

    • Everyone deserves a healthy relationship!

  • Subscribe to Journey Center’s newsletter

    • Stay connected and in the know.

  • Provide resources

    • Journey Center is available 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

    • Anyone can call or text our 24-Hour Helpline: 216.391.4357 (HELP) or chat with us online.

  • Contact your representatives

    • Throughout the year Journey Center follows local and national legislation that impacts survivors of domestic violence and child abuse.

    • Sign up for our newsletter or check out website to learn more.

  • Attend a training

    • Join Journey Center for our Intimate Partner Stalking training on January 21.

    • Check our website throughout the year to see when we offer other trainings about dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking.

  • Participate in Journey’s awareness campaigns

    • Journey has four awareness campaigns throughout the year- join us and show your friends and community that you support healthy relationships for all!

      • January: National Stalking Awareness Month

      • February: Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

      • April: Child Abuse Prevention Month

      • October: Domestic Violence Awareness Month

We hope you will continue to support survivors, let those impacted by abuse know that they are not alone, increase awareness in the community, and spread the word that we all deserve relationships built on love, respect, and safety. We cannot do this work without you!