Resources for Those Experiencing Abuse
If you’re reading this and you feel unsafe, unseen, or unsure—please know this: what you’re experiencing is real. It’s not your fault. And you are not alone. There is help. There is hope. And there is life on the other side of this.
In Immediate Danger
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency services.
Crisis Support and Hotlines
United States:
National Domestic Violence Hotline
800-799-7233 or text START to 88788
www.thehotline.org (24/7 live chat available)
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
800-656-4673
www.rainn.org
1in6 (Support for Male Survivors)
www.1in6.org
Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741
Free, 24/7 emotional support
International:
United Kingdom – Refuge (Women & Children)
0808 2000 247
www.refuge.org.uk
United Kingdom – Men’s Advice Line
0808 801 0327
www.mensadviceline.org.uk
Canada – ShelterSafe
www.sheltersafe.ca
Australia – 1800RESPECT
1800 737 732
www.1800respect.org.au
Mental Health and Trauma Recovery
Seek out trauma-informed therapists who specialize in domestic abuse, PTSD, or complex trauma.
Platforms such as BetterHelp and Talkspace offer secure, online therapy.
Use Psychology Today (www.psychologytoday.com) to find therapists near you.
Planning to Leave
Leaving an abusive relationship is often the most dangerous time. Take steps with care and support.
Use a safe device—one your abuser cannot access or monitor.
Visit www.thehotline.org to create a personalized Safety Plan.
Contact a local shelter or advocacy group to help guide the process.
Prepare emergency essentials in advance (important documents, keys, cash, medication, contact numbers).
For Survivors in Recovery
Join a support group. Many local organizations and online spaces offer survivor-led healing groups.
Read stories that reflect and validate your own. Recommended titles include:
Why Does He Do That? by Lundy Bancroft
No Visible Bruises by Rachel Louise Snyder
Know My Name by Chanel Miller
Be patient with yourself. Healing is not linear. You are allowed to move at your own pace.
You Deserve This Truth
You are not crazy.
You are not overreacting.
You are not broken beyond repair.
You are allowed to leave.
You are allowed to stay gone.
You are allowed to rebuild in peace.