It can be hard to know when to get involved in another’s
personal life or when to stay silent if you suspect domestic abuse. Taking
action in a situation where someone is being hurt can seem like intruding or
meddling, but you could be the one to save or change that victim’s life by
helping break the cycle of violence.
According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline,
there are ways to help someone you suspect is being abused; and, you can
protect yourself as well.
Call the police or
911. You may overhear a fight that you suspect is turning violent and if
this occurs, you should call the police. These calls can be anonymous. If you
choose to get involved and offer your report to the police, they can help
protect you.
Keep a record of
what you see/hear and when. Sometimes arguments can turn loud and scary,
but they may not be violent. Try to keep a record of what you have heard. If
you suspect an argument has escalated into violence, this record may ultimately
help the victim if you come forward with this information.
Approach your
landlord with concerns. If you suspect a neighbor is being abused, talk
with the management team on site who may be able to approach the neighbor and
offer support.
Talk with the
victim. If you know your neighbor, you could be the person to ask them if
they need help and guide them to the right resources to help them leave the
abusive situation.
Don’t get involved
in the argument. If you suspect someone is being abused, it may be
dangerous to get personally involved. These difficult situations are best left
to trained professionals.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers advocates
who can be reached at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or online at www.thehotline.org