Friends play an important role in an individuals’ support system. They can provide a safe place to express feelings, fears and hope.
What you can say:
- I believe you.
- You are not alone.
- No one deserves to be abused.
- Your safety and the safety of your children are important.
- It is a crime.
- I am here for you.
What you can do:
- Be a non-judgmental listener. If your friend confides in you, it is because they trust you.
- Help them make their own decisions—even if they are not the decisions you would make. Don’t make them feel guilty about their decisions.
- Check if they are physically hurt and, if so, take them to the hospital.
- If they have children offer to care for them for a few hours to give them some time.
- If they want to leave their home: take them into your home (if you both will be safe), or connect them to help through a crisis line or a shelter.
- Give them Casa de Esperanza’s Crisis Line: 651.772.1611 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1.800.787.7233.
For more helpful tips from the National Hotline on how to help a friend or coworker click here. (Not available in Spanish)
For more information on supporting individuals from the LGBT community who’ve experienced violence check out this guide from the NW Network of Bi, Trans, Lesbian, and Gay Survivors of Abuse. (Not available in Spanish)
