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How to Help a Friend Experiencing Abuse

Writer's picture: Hibiscus CounsellingHibiscus Counselling



Tigger warning: Mentions of abuse


If you have a friend who is experiencing abuse, it can be a difficult and overwhelming situation to navigate. You may feel uncertain about how to best support your friend, or even unsure if you should get involved at all. However, it's important to remember that your friend is counting on you for support, and there are steps you can take to help them in a safe and effective way.


Here are some tips for supporting a friend who is experiencing abuse:

  1. Listen and validate their feelings. It's important to let your friend know that you believe them and that their feelings are valid. Avoid minimizing their experiences or telling them how they should feel. Simply listen and offer your support.

  2. Encourage them to seek help. It's important for your friend to know that they have options and that there are resources available to help them. Encourage them to reach out to a trusted adult, such as a teacher, counselor, or family member, or to a hotline or support group for further assistance.

  3. Help them create a safety plan. If your friend is in immediate danger, encourage them to call 911/100 or seek help from a trusted authority figure. If they are not in immediate danger, help them come up with a plan for how to stay safe and get help if the abuse continues.

  4. Be there for them. It's important for your friend to know that they are not alone and that they have someone they can turn to for support. Offer to be there for them and check in with them regularly to see how they are doing.

Remember, it's not your job to fix your friend's problems or to put yourself in danger. It's okay to reach out for help and support for yourself as well. If you're feeling overwhelmed, consider talking to a trusted adult or counselor for further guidance.



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