Any form of abuse, whether physical, emotional, mental or of any type, is serious. It is important to stand up for your own health and take immediate steps that can keep you safe. Domestic violence and abuse, whether at the hand of your husband or partner, is one of the most guarded dirty secrets of our society. In many cases, we feel compelled to stay quiet about it, because we fear society will judge us and it may also affect parents and other immediate family members.
Domestic violence and abuse, whether at the hand of your husband or partner, is one of the most guarded dirty secrets of our society. In many cases, we feel compelled to stay quiet about it, because we fear society will judge us and it may also affect parents and other immediate family members.
But more than anything else, it is important to stop the abuse and keep yourself safe.
3 IMMEDIATE safety plans that can help you in times of danger
1. Be prepared
It is very important that you always keep yourself ready to run away from immediate danger if things start to get out of hand. The first step here is to keep a small bag ready and stashed with supplies you will need in an emergency.
You can easily store this in your cupboard. Keep items such as some cash that can help you move from one place to another, a power bank or phone adapter, one change of clothes, few sanitary pads and so on. The idea is to grab this and run out the door.
2. Set up speed dial
Keep a few numbers on speed dial, such as your immediate neighbour, the nearest police station, a family member or friend who you know can help you immediately and reach you soon enough, or even just come over to witness the abuse (this can be very helpful later).
3. Prepare a safety code word
Talk to one or two close friends who you know will help you the moment you are in danger. In such a situation, when you may not be able to talk at length on the phone, all you have to do is dial the number and say the code word, and the other person will know you are in danger.
Of course, there are many more things you can do, such as learn some form of defense skill to keep yourself from immediate harm, talking to your friends, family, neighbours and co-workers and so on.
These 3 tips mentioned here are something you should always follow and make use of when you have to act IMMEDIATELY.
Republished with permission from: The Indus Parent
Also read: 8 Things about domestic abuse victims wants you to know