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How to Support Someone Going Through Domestic Violence

There are many ways to support someone who is going through domestic violence. It is important to avoid criticizing the abuser and blaming the victim. It is also important to not intervene physically. The following are some tips that can help you support the survivor without becoming involved in the situation. Read on to learn more. In addition to avoiding verbal abuse, you can also stay away from criticism or blame.

Don’t criticize the abuser

When supporting a person going through domestic violence, don’t criticize the abuser. Criticizing the abuser implies that you are critical of the victim and their choice. Abusers may use this tactic to isolate their victims by telling them that no one likes them. This tactic may even convince the victim that the abuser is correct. However, it will likely only further distance them and make them less willing to reach out for support.

While you may not be able to stop an abuser from harming a victim, you can support them in getting help and change their behaviour. When supporting someone who is suffering from domestic violence, it is important to remember that the abuser’s actions have long lasting effects. Whether the victim is verbally abusive, physically abusive, or mentally abusive, the actions and words of others can encourage the abuser to change.

Be aware of the signs

When supporting someone who is going through domestic violence, it is important to understand the different types of abuse. One type of abuse is verbal. Verbal abuse occurs when one person shouts, threatens or otherwise controls the other person’s behaviour, thoughts, or feelings. It is not a healthy discussion between two equals. This kind of abuse is motivated by fear and doesn’t involve a discussion of what is ‘right’ or ‘wrong’.

Another type of abuse involves implying stupid things about the victim. The abuser may say that her hobby is a waste of time or that her hobbies are worthless. These comments can be hurtful, especially if the abuser feels insecure and doesn’t respect their boundaries. Be very careful not to make negative comments about the abuser when supporting someone going through domestic violence.

Do not blame the survivor

The best way to protect yourself and your family is to avoid blaming the survivor of domestic violence. While it can be tempting to blame the perpetrator of violence, this can cause more harm than good. Instead, try to offer support and guidance to the survivor. If possible, keep your own distance from the suspected abuser. When offering support, listen carefully and offer specific help. Do not blame the survivor for not speaking up.

It is common for women to fear bringing attention to the abuse because they believe no one will believe them. The reality, however, is that those who do report the abuse are less likely to be accused of false accusations than those who do not. That being said, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of domestic violence, and to help the victim get the best possible treatment. When someone accuses the survivor of causing their abuse, it’s important to not blame the victim if you don’t want to make her feel worse.

Do not intervene physically

If you are witnessing an act of domestic violence, do not intervene physically or threaten the person who is being abused. You should call the police and cooperate with them as best as possible, but if the violence is continuing, do not intervene physically. If the abuser is violent, do not attempt to interfere, as you may end up hurting him or her further. Upon contact of police, cooperate with the investigation, fill out a police report, and be prepared to testify in court. It is important to remember that most victims of domestic violence are not willing to cooperate or follow through with legal actions.

If you know a friend going through a domestic violence situation, consider being their friend and supporter. You can encourage them to make a safety plan and help them think through what they can do in case the abuser turns violent. You can help them come up with a list of emergency contacts, or even hide a suitcase with important items. If necessary, offer to store their suitcase at your home for them.

Do not put-down the abuser

If you see someone enduring abuse, it’s important to support them in any way you can. Try to believe the person you’re supporting without giving advice or pressure. Also, do not put-down the abuser. This could cause the person to become afraid to open up to you again. If you do intervene, be sure to respect the victim’s decisions. While confronting the abuser is never a good idea, being supportive is crucial.

Help your friend develop a safety plan, you can help find support services and compare movers if necessary. Make sure she has a list of places and people she can call such as counselling helplines if she needs to escape from the abuse. Encourage her to hide a suitcase with important items, like money, or offer to keep it at your home. Even if the abuser is violent, having a safety plan can empower victims of domestic violence to take action and leave.

Where to Donate Stuffed Teddy Bears and Make a Difference

Life doesn’t always go to plan and sometimes it is our children who are mostly affected by life changing events. They might be dealing with a serious illness, coping with the aftermath of a natural disaster, affected by the news of family separation, grieving from the loss of their parents or any other number of reasons. It’s in these difficult times when a stuffed animal like a teddy bear can make all the difference for a child.


If you have any stuffed animals that your children have outgrown or no longer use, consider donating them to one of many charities. Your donation will help bring some joy and comfort to a child who really needs it and is navigating through a confusing time and a tough situation. Whatever the reason, it’s important to let them know that they are not alone and that there are people who care about them.


Donating stuffed animals is a great way to declutter the home of items that are no longer in use or rid of items children have outgrown and give items a new lease of life. Teddy bears and cuddly stuff toys can be passed along to children who may really appreciate this type of gift. Most people are unaware of the simple joy these unused items lying around the home can bring to a child, if you are wondering where to donate unused teddy bears, understand that there are many convenient options where you can drop have your donations picked up or dropped off.

Here are some places where you can donate stuffed animals:

Ronald McDonald House Charities
This organization provides a place to stay for families with sick children who are receiving treatment at local hospitals. The Ronald McDonald House accepts new toys and stuffed animals due to their strict hygiene protocol. You can donate online or check their website to see if there is a location near you.


Local Police and Fire Stations
In many instances, the police and fire services are the first responders to emergency situations involving children. These brave men and women often give teddy bears and other stuffed animals to help comfort the children they encounter during these difficult events. Your local Police and Fire Station may have capacity to accept donations of new teddy bears and other stuffed animals.


Hospitals
Many hospitals have toy donation programs where you can donate new or gently used stuffed animals to be given to sick children during their stay. You can contact your local hospital to find out if they participate in such a program.


Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is a charity that provides a wide range of services to those in need. They often have donation drives where they collect items like clothes, toys and other household goods. To donate stuffed animals, you can contact your local Salvation Army to see if they are running a donation drive or check their website for more information.


Local Shelters
There are many shelters that support the local community doing it tough. Families that are in desperate need of food and shelter can rely on these organizations to provide some basic necessities. These shelters may also be able to accept donations of stuffed animals which can be given to children living there. To donate, you can contact your local shelter.


Donating Teddy Bears
Donating teddy bears and stuffed animals is a fantastic way to gift a child something special in time of need. Something as simple as a soft toy can brighten a child’s day and put a smile on their face. It is a good idea to check local regulations before donating your stuffed animals as each support charity may have varying guidelines and protocols.