Supportive Guidance

2.4.6 How to Support a Survivor (Friends & Family)

Guidelines for offering supportive, non-judgmental assistance without pressuring.

What HELPS a Survivor

  • Listen Without Judgment: Believe her story and validate her feelings.
  • Support Her Autonomy: Respect her decisions, timing, and safety choices.
  • Provide Safe Communication: Help her set up a safe secondary phone or email.
  • Share Hotline Info: Offer the 24/7 Hotline number (1-800-799-7233) without forcing her to call.

What to AVOID

  • Avoid Confronting the Abuser: This often escalates danger for the survivor.
  • Do Not Pressure Her to Leave: Leaving is the statistically most dangerous period.
  • Avoid Giving Ultimatums: Forcing choices replicates abusive control dynamics.