Get help for violence

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If you have experienced violence, you may feel shock, fear, sadness, and confusion. You may even feel numb, or think that what happens to you doesn't matter. But no one has the right to hurt you or make you feel afraid. Many groups and people want to help you live a healthier, happier life. Keep reading to learn more about:

Ways to get help include:

Calling the police. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
Calling hotlines. Learn more about different help hotlines. Hotlines provide support and resources. They also can help you create a safety plan for leaving an abuser.
Reaching out to people you trust. People who care want to help. You can start with family, friends, or community organizations.
Talking to a health care professional. Doctors, nurses, and counselors can offer physical aid, emotional support, and resources. Go to a hospital emergency room if you need immediate help for injuries.
Contacting a shelter or rape crisis center. Shelters provide food, housing, and other types of help. You can find shelters and services by contacting a hotline or through state resources.
Contacting an advocate. Advocates are people who are trained to help someone who has lived through domestic violence, dating violence, or sexual assault. You can talk to an advocate on the phone or in person, confidentially and for free. Advocates can explain options and programs in your community that may include legal support, counseling, emergency services, and other resources. Advocates work in shelters and in community-based programs. You can learn more by calling help hotlines.

Learn more about getting help in specific situations, such as:

You can also learn how to help a friend who has experienced violence and how to help prevent violence.

Content last updated July 16, 2012.

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