If you are the victim of intimate partner violence, do not blame yourself. Talk with people you trust and seek services. Contact your local battered women’s shelter or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233), 800-787-3224 TDD, or www.ndvh.org/. They can provide you with helpful information and advice.

If you are or think you may become a perpetrator of intimate partner violence contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233), 800-787-3224 (TDD), or www.ndvh.org/. They can provide you with helpful contact information.

Recognize early warning signs for physical violence such as a partner's extreme jealousy, controlling behavior, verbal threats, history of violent tendencies or abusing others, and verbal or emotional abuse.

Know what services are available for victims and perpetrators of intimate partner violence and their children in case you or a friend should need help.

Learn more about intimate partner violence. Information is available in libraries, from local and national domestic violence organizations, and through the Internet. The more you know about intimate partner violence, the easier it will be to recognize it and help friends who may be victims or perpetrators.

In Your Community

Support increased access to services for victims and perpetrators of intimate partner violence as well as for their children.

Coordinate community initiatives to strengthen safety networks for women who experience violence.

Increase public awareness to help decrease and prevent intimate partner violence.