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How can I help a friend who is experiencing emotional abuse?
Here are some basic steps you can take:
- Make sure they are safe. This is the number one priority
- Be understanding. Explain that there are many people in this situation. Acknowledge that
it takes strength to trust someone enough to talk about abuse. Allow them time to talk and don't push them to give too
much detail if they don't want to.
- Do not criticise the abuser as it will put the person off telling you anymore.
- Be supportive. Be a good listener, and encourage them to express their hurt and anger.
- Let them make their own decisions. If they aren't ready to leave the relationship, this is their
decision.
- Ask if they have suffered physical harm. Offer to go with them to hospital if they need you
to. If they want to report the assault to the police help them do this.
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