“Radiance was like a safety net, and they just caught us and gave us a place.”
Recognize the signs of abuse
Knowing the signs that someone may be experiencing abuse is one of the first steps you can take to support your loved ones. Below are behaviors that can indicate someone you know if experiencing abuse:
- Unusually sad, fearful or anxious
- Distancing or difficulty concentrating at work or school
- Not having access or control of finances
- Partner displays jealous behavior or makes disruptive visits to the workplace
- Partner speaks for or answers for them
- Unexplained or unrealistically explained bruising or injuries
You can learn more about recognizing the signs of abuse by booking a workshop with us.
Believe them and respond with empathy
When you see the signs of abuse, reaching out to someone and asking if they are safe lets them know you care about them, and it may open a door for further conversation. You have identified yourself as a safe person to talk to. It takes incredible courage for someone experiencing abuse to talk to someone about it and seek help. You have an important role to play by how you respond and have an opportunity to create a safe connection to provide support.
Refer them to professional supports
There are professional supports in place that connect individuals who are experiencing abuse with people who are trained to help to help them manage their safety. You aren’t alone in supporting a person experiencing violence and abuse.
- If you think someone is in immediate danger, please call 911
- Connect Domestic Violence and Abuse Helpline: 403.234.7233 (SAFE)
- Men’s Resources: menand.ca
- Tech Safety Canada: techsafety.ca
- Alberta Women’s Shelter Hotline: 1.866.331.3933
- Distress Centre: 403.266.4357
- Family Violence Info Line (available 24/7 in 170 languages): 403.310.1818