Help a Friend

You might think that something as simple as talking to a friend about domestic violence couldn’t possibly help, but you really can make a difference.

What if your friend decides to remain in the relationship?

  • Listen, without judging.

  • Explain that abuse is not the victim’s fault.

  • Be honest and supportive.

  • Tell your friend you are afraid for them and their children.*

  • Make sure they know they are not alone.

  • Suggest they develop a safety plan in case of an emergency. Safety plan pocket cards with planning ideas can be picked up in the YWCA office during office hours, or YWCA advocates can help develop a customized safety plan.

  • Think about ways you might feel comfortable helping. If your friend decides to leave a relationship, they may need money, assistance finding a place to live, a place to store belongings, or a ride to a domestic violence shelter.

Get advice. If you want to talk with someone to get free, confidential advice about a particular situation, you can contact YWCA Walla Walla at 509-525-2570. YWCA also operates a 24-hour crisis line at 509-529-YWCA or, for the Dayton area, 509-382-YWCA. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE.

*Though most YWCA clients are women, YWCA provides advocacy services for male survivors as well. Men can experience both domestic violence and sexual assault. 

Click English or Spanish cover below to download a booklet about how to help someone in an abusive relationship.