It Won't Happen to Me:
Substance Abuse-Related Violence Against Women
for Anyone Concerned About The Issues
Women in Abusive Relationships
Abused women have a strong need to feel safe. Their lives have been turned upside down, and they need to feel they can live without fear. They also need information on available options and resources. At first, an abused woman might just need a safe place to gather her current belongings. Later, she may need help from the city or State. Her needs may include housing, medical care, clothing, transportation, food, and money. She may also need legal help, child care, job training, or education.
The two most widely used forms of treating a victim of domestic violence are support groups and one-on-one counseling. More cities are creating resources that deal with both the short- and long-term needs of abused women. Some of these centers are called "family crisis centers." The workers are called "victim advocates."
In some areas, services are provided by the county or city. In other areas, a nonprofit may offer counseling for abused women. Often, a health care provider such as a nurse or doctor will recognize signs of abuse and refer the patient to a local counseling center. Not all doctors and nurses are trained in domestic violence or sexual assault, but many are. They may know community resources if the woman feels safe confiding in them.
Because domestic violence is a difficult and complex problem, women who attend both support groups and one-on-one counseling seem to do better overall. They are able to get all of their needs met and seem more aware of themselves. These women are more willing and able to focus on their problems and not just on the abusive partner.1-3
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Last Updated: 6/15/04
SAMHSA is an Agency of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
