What to Do If You’re Experiencing Domestic Abuse: A Guide to Protecting Yourself and Getting Help
Domestic abuse can happen to anyone—regardless of age, gender, background, or relationship status. It takes many forms, from physical violence to emotional manipulation, financial control, and verbal intimidation. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, know this: you are not alone, and there is help available.
Below is a guide outlining steps you can take to protect yourself and begin the journey to safety and recovery.
1. Recognize the Abuse
Domestic abuse isn’t always physical. It can include:
Emotional Abuse: threats, humiliation, manipulation, isolation.
Physical Abuse: hitting, pushing, choking, restraining.
Sexual Abuse: coercion, assault, unwanted contact.
Financial Abuse: controlling money, withholding access to finances.
Digital Abuse: monitoring devices, controlling social media, constant texting.
If your partner’s behavior makes you feel unsafe, controlled, or afraid, it’s abuse.
2. Create a Safety Plan
If you’re planning to leave or fear violence, having a safety plan is critical:
Identify safe areas in your home with an easy exit and no weapons.
Keep emergency items in a hidden but accessible place: phone, ID, cash, car keys, medications, important documents.
Teach your children how to call 911 and what to do in emergencies.
Establish a code word to alert friends or family to call for help.
3. Reach Out for Help
You don’t have to do this alone. There are professionals ready to support you.
Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-SAFE (7233)
Text “START” to 88788 for confidential help.
Contact local shelters, advocates, or legal aid organizations for emergency housing and support.
Speak to an attorney to explore protective orders and legal options.
4. Seek Legal Protection
You have the right to be safe. In Mississippi and most other states, you can petition the court for:
A Temporary Protective Order (TPO) or Restraining Order.
Emergency custody of children, if applicable.
Exclusive use of the home, even if you don’t own it.
An attorney can help you file quickly and discreetly.
5. Document the Abuse
Evidence can be crucial if you pursue legal action:
Take pictures of injuries or damage.
Save threatening texts, emails, voicemails.
Keep a journal of incidents, including dates and descriptions.
Report incidents to police, even if you choose not to press charges at the time.
6. Take Care of Yourself
Abuse leaves invisible wounds. Healing takes time, and support is key:
Speak with a counselor or therapist experienced in trauma.
Join a support group with others who understand.
Practice self-care—rest, eat, and breathe. You deserve to feel safe and whole.
You Are Not Alone
Leaving an abusive relationship is one of the bravest things you can do. Whether you’re planning to leave or just beginning to recognize the signs, know that there is no shame in asking for help.
If you’re in immediate danger, call 911.
If you need legal protection or advocacy, our law firm is here to guide you through the process—confidentially and with compassion.
Stuard Thornton Law Firm
📞 Call for a confidential consultation: (601) 207-3434
📍 Magee, Mississippi
💻 Visit: www.stuardthornton.com
We believe in justice, healing, and hope.