By Rhonda Ballance

Client Services Advocate

Hyde County Hotline

Joyful August everyone. We hope you all have had a wonderful and peaceful summer so far. For the victim of domestic violence it is never joyful or peaceful.

In this article we discuss what steps to take if you are in an abusive relationship. We hope you find this important information useful.

Getting out of an abusive relationship isn’t easy, but you deserve to live free of fear. Here’s how to find help for abused and battered women.

“If she’s in an abusive relationship, why doesn’t she just leave?”

It’s the question many people ask when they learn that a woman is suffering battery and abuse. But if you are in an abusive relationship, you know that it’s not that simple. Ending a significant relationship is never easy. It’s even harder when you’ve been isolated from your family and friends, psychologically beaten down, financially controlled, and physically threatened.

If you’re trying to decide whether to stay or leave, you may be feeling confused, uncertain, frightened, and torn. Maybe you’re still hoping that your situation will change or you’re afraid of how your partner will react if he discovers that you’re trying to leave. One moment, you may desperately want to get away, and the next, you may want to hang on to the relationship. Maybe you even blame yourself for the abuse or feel weak and embarrassed because you’ve stuck around in spite of it. Don’t be trapped by confusion, guilt, or self-blame. The only thing that matters is your safety.

If you are being abused, remember:

• You are not to blame for being battered or mistreated.
• You are not the cause of your partner’s abusive behavior.
• You deserve to be treated with respect.
• You deserve a safe and happy life.
• Your children deserve a safe and happy life.
• You are not alone. There are people waiting to help.

There are many resources available for abused and battered women, including crisis hotlines, shelters — even job training, legal services, and childcare. Start by reaching out today.

If you need immediate assistance, call 911.

Hyde County Hotline’s 24-Hour Crisis Line number is 252-925-2500. Our office number in Engelhard is 252-925-2502.

We serve victims of sexual victimization, domestic violence and human trafficking, and we do not discriminate regardless of race, color, sex or sexual orientation.

Hyde County Hotline provides crisis intervention, domestic and sexual violence advocacy, human trafficking advocacy, survivor services, safe shelter, support groups, referrals, programs and presentations; and we participate with DSS Work First Program.

We promote dignity, respect and safety at home resulting in safer communities.

Through collaborative efforts of a compassionate community, we can work to eliminate domestic abuse, sexual victimization and human trafficking in Hyde County. Thank you for all you do.