Domestic Violence

Getting Help

How can a woman safely leave an abusive relationship and protect herself from further abuse? Most women cannot simply leave their homes, their jobs, their children’s schools, their friends, and their relatives to escape their abuser. They depend upon police to enforce the law against physical abuse. Yet, police cannot act until a restraining order is violated or until some physical harm again befalls the woman.

If you are a victim of domestic violence, you may believe that it's easier to stay with your abuser than to try to leave and risk retaliation. However, there are many things you can do to protect yourself while getting out of an abusive situation, and there are people waiting to help.

• If you need immediate assistance, dial 911.
• For resources, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). 
• Contact the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV).
• To find an organization near you, see the NCADV's State Coalition List.
• Here are other helpful tips for getting help.