If You Are Being Abused

Dr. Phil Staff May 25 2023

Parenting

Know what to do if you are being abused.

  • Call the police.
  • Avoid becoming isolated and confide in someone.
  • Do not feel shame and know that no one has the right to hit or control you with fear.
  • Know that there is no excuse for abuse, it is not your fault and you are not alone.
  • Keep a record (including pictures if possible) and hide it carefully.
  • Consider ending the relationship as soon as possible.
  • Develop a safety/exit plan that does not include confronting your abuser:
  1. Know emergency numbers.
  2. Keep spare house and car keys and a suitcase with essentials hidden but accessible.
  3. Know where you can stay in an emergency.
  4. Hide key documents and some emergency money
  5. Work out a distress signal-system with a friend or loved one.
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