Having a Crisis: Violence?

If you are being verbally, physically or sexually abused by your partner, you are not alone. Many people are victims/survivors of violence at the hands of someone they love.

Domestic violence is a crime. You can reach out for help. Talk to a family member, friend or someone at Crisis Hotline (713-HOTLINE) while you think about your options. To learn more about the characteristics of an abusive relationship look at the power and control wheel.

Everyone has options. Some people choose to stay and some choose to leave their partners. Regardless, most have found it helpful to have a safety plan.

If you are in a life-threatening situation; you, your children or your neighbor, can call 911. The police have been trained to handle domestic violence situations and must help people regardless of their race, sex, financial situation, metal state and immigration status.

Please review the plan guidelines and options listed below, and we've prepared a Personalized Safety Plan you may print and use as a guide.

Safety Plan

Establish a code with family and friends so that they know to call the police if you are in danger.

Try to avoid arguments in rooms without access to a door or that contain weapons (kitchen, bathroom).

Practice how to get out safely if you feel threatened.

Pack and hide the following:

  • Money, keys, clothing
  • Social Security Card (yours and the children's)
  • Immigration and work papers
  • Bank account numbers
  • Birth certificates
  • Receipts for rent, utilities, etc.
  • Medications, glasses, medical records
  • Marriage or divorce papers
  • Important telephone numbers
  • Any evidence (pictures, etc.) of the abuse
  • A special photograph or toy

Not having all of these things ready should not stop the victim from leaving.

Options

Staying with the abuser

  • Make and follow a safety plan.
  • Call the police when violence begins.
  • Attend a support group.
  • Seek help from family, friends, and/or church.
  • Know numbers to battered women's shelters.

Leaving the abuser

  • Make and follow a safety plan.
  • Contact a battered women's shelter.
  • Consider getting a protective order.

Arresting the batterer

  • Call or go to the nearest police station and "file charges" (which is not the same as making a report).
  • If the abuser is removed, change the locks.
  • Arresting the batterer is an effective way to stop the immediate abuse.

Getting a Protective Order

  • Prohibits the abuser from communicating in a harassing manner with the survivor.
  • Protective orders are free and designed to protect the survivor and their family.