As a friend, family member, or co-worker of someone in an unhealthy or abusive relationship, you may be the first person to recognize your loved one is not safe.

There are many things you can do to maintain your relationship with them and assist them in building a safety net for themselves, their children, and their pets.

Here are a few tips:

• Let them know that you are concerned for their safety. Help your friend, family member or co-worker recognize the abuse. Tell them you see what is going on and that you want to help.
• Be supportive and acknowledge that the situation is very difficult and scary. Help them recognize that what is happening is not their fault, reassure them that they are not alone, and let them know that there is help and support available.
• Listen to your friend. Remember it may be difficult for them to talk about the abuse. What they need most is someone who will believe and listen to them.
• Be nonjudgmental. Respect their decisions. They may leave and return to the relationship many times. Do not criticize their decisions or try to make them feel guilty. They will need your support even more during those times.
• If the relationship ends, continue to be supportive. Even though the relationship was abusive, they may still feel sad and lonely once it is over. They will need time to mourn the loss of the relationship and will need your support.

Visit our website for more tips on supporting someone who is experiencing abuse in their relationship.

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