The Benefits Of Calling A Domestic Violence Hotline

abuse hotlines

Each year, more than 4 million Americans are in need of a domestic violence hotline. These battered women are victims of shouting matches, belittling name-calling and violent threats. They are forced to endure humiliating sex acts, anal penetration or intercourse following a physical beating. They are hit with blunt objects, punched, slapped, scratched, pinned down, choked and burned. They are spied on, stalked, sabotaged at work, financially restricted and ultimately controlled by their domestic partner. Since the abuser gets into one's psyche, it can seem like an insurmountable task to find help. Yet, a better life is right at the other end of the phone line.

Domestic violence hotlines may provide crisis intervention services. First, you will receive a list of all helpful resources in your area. If you are still in the dangerous situation, then you will receive assistance arranging a safety plan to ensure that you and your children get out of harm's way. Transitional housing and economic assistance can be provided if you feel "stuck" and are unable to get out because of financial restrictions. Additionally, you may set up group or individual counseling to help you once the decision to leave has been made.

Even if you "feel ok," there may be subtle, deep-seated emotional damage that you need to sort out before you can move on. Court assistance, police protection against stalking and medical assistance can also be arranged through the abuse hotlines. There's no need to face this situation alone: an invested caseworker will provide the emotional support you need to be strong. Community programs and training can help you gain necessary job skills to be independent as well.

In addition to crisis intervention and emotional abuse treatment, you may also require legal assistance, which a domestic violence hotline will be happy to provide. Finding an attorney who specializes in domestic violence cases is just a phone call away. Many domestic disputes go unreported because the mothers are afraid of losing custody of the children, losing property or losing access to finances. Lawyers can help any budget and ensure that you aren't victimized through the court system. If you fear for your safety, then you can get a restraining order. If you are from another country, hoping to attain citizenship through marriage, your immigration status can be maintained through a law office. Public assistance benefits are also available to you.

Lastly, a domestic violence hotline can provide you and your children with resources for safe accommodations while you're in transition. You will have access to community services that provide housing, clothing, food and monetary emergency funding. The most important thing is that you get out and go to a neutral place where you can contact family and friends and remain safe from harm's way. It may be tempting to go to your parent's house or a friend's, but you will need to be someplace where the abuser cannot find you or manipulate you further. Breaking up is never easy, no matter how bad the situation was, but your friends at the hotlines are there for you, standing by with the answers.