In 2022 184 women and girls were violently murdered – often at the hands of men. If you’ve suffered some form of abuse, you are not alone. You cannot make an abuser stop abusing you. Only they have the power to do that. What you can do is escape, and find the life you deserve. Today, Howard & Associates Psychological Services shares some guidance to help you get out, get away, and start living the safe life you deserve.
If you are in an emergency, it’s vital that you get away from your abuser as soon as you see the opportunity. If getting away will require a methodical approach, preparing a plan ahead of time can give you the power to safely get away.
Take Advantage of Therapy Options
Therapy is essential for emotional healing after escaping an abusive relationship, as it provides a safe space to process trauma and rebuild self-esteem. A therapist can help individuals understand the impact of abuse on their mental health, guiding them toward healthier coping mechanisms and relationships. Through consistent support and evidence-based practices, therapy fosters resilience and aids in reclaiming one's sense of self and empowerment. If you have any questions, Howard & Associates Psychological Services is here to help!
Stay Safe with Reverse Phone Lookup
Reverse phone lookup can be a crucial tool for individuals escaping an abusive partner, helping to identify unknown callers and ensure they are not being tracked or harassed. It enables the person to verify the identity and intentions of contacts, providing an additional layer of security. For instance, this tool can help with details about the 514 area code. By uncovering details such as the caller's location and name, reverse phone lookup helps the person to make informed decisions about their safety and whom they allow into their new, secure environment.
Create a Safety Plan
As part of your safety plan, purchase a prepaid phone, and put your important phone numbers in it. The prepaid phone ensures that you can talk to the police or lawyers or make other arrangements without your abuser suspecting. Plus, it enables you to leave your cell phone behind if you share a plan with your partner. That way, they cannot track you through GPS.
When searching online for help, remember not to use devices your abuser can access (like your laptop or cell phone). Instead, use a computer at the library to ensure your partner can’t monitor your activity. Additionally, contact family members and friends who can help with a place to stay or money. Let them know that you plan to leave, but only if you know you can trust them not to share your plans with your abuser.
Next, start a savings account in your name and add to it as you can. This will provide you with a financial safety net and enables you to prepare for getting a new home after you leave. Make copies of important documents like birth certificates, health insurance cards, etc. Then, put them somewhere safe, like a family member's home or in a safe deposit box. Also, gather any proof of abuse that you have, like pictures, threatening notes, etc.
You should also pack an emergency bag that includes an extra set of keys to your car. Check out this packing list from Love Is Respect to help you put your bag together. Just in case you need it, determine a safe place where you and your children can hide within the home if you need to. Avoid hiding in enclosed spaces (like closets and bathrooms) or areas with dangerous items (like the kitchen).
Evaluate Your Housing Options
This step is crucial, although less scary. Look for an apartment or rental home that’s in a different part of town or in the next city over, if possible. Depending on your income, you may be in a position to buy a home, but there is a lot to keep in mind when floating a mortgage by yourself.
Prepare to Move
If you’re able to start packing, anything you can do ahead of time will help. While moving can be a hassle, there are steps you can take to make it a bit smoother.
o Label everything with a permanent marker.
o Use a suitcase with wheels for as much as you can.
o Use old clothes as packing material.
o Store essential items that you will need immediately (like a box cutter for unpacking) in a clear storage container so you can find them.
o Use sandwich bags for hardware from furniture.
o Pack an overnight bag for you and your children.
o Use a P.O. Box instead of your home address to keep your location secret from your abuser.
o Apply for an address confidentiality program in your state.
The key takeaway is to plan, get help from friends and family, and know where to hide if you can't get away. After that, calculate what you can afford for housing expenses, pack well, and ensure that your location remains private. You can have a life free from abuse.
Howard & Associates Psychological Services is here to serve those in need. Call
780-570-1230.
Written By Dorothy Watson
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