Domestic Violence is a pattern of coercive behaviors used to gain power and control over another person in an intimate relationship or family unit.

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Domestic violence occurs in all classes, races, cultures, religions, and sexual preferences. No one deserves to be abused. Yet each year, thousands of families in New Hampshire and across the country endure the terrifying effects of domestic violence.

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Sadly, the consequence of accepting and ignoring violence in our lives is more violence. All victims want to believe their batterers when they promise that the abuse won’t happen again. Unfortunately, without intervention, the abuse does continue, typically increasing in frequency and severity. The result of this violence can be devastating to both victims and their children. Victims of violence feel helpless and isolated, making choices based on fear. Children who grow up in violent homes learn that violence is an appropriate way to express feeling of anger and frustration and often repeat the patterns of their childhood.

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Safety is an important priority when living with domestic violence. Safety Planning Download

Having a safety plan serves as a helpful resource in developing safe choices, exploring options and addressing areas of concern with which you may be faced.

It may be helpful for you to fill out a plan with the help of a domestic violence advocate. You can access an advocate by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE), they can also help you locate a crisis center in your area.

Dealing with a domestic violence relationship is a process. It is important to keep in mind that there is help and support available. You are not alone.

Scars of Survival supports you and the decisions you make about safety for you and your family. We are not here to judge you or tell you what to do. We can give you information and help you strategize what will work for you and your family. Sometimes all you need is a listening ear, and we can offer that too.