My Sisters’ Place, a domestic violence shelter, is warning women about the dangers of voicing plans to leave abusive relationships.
Planning Escape from Domestic Violence
“Leaving an abusive relationship is the most dangerous time, because the abuser feels they are losing power and control, so they escalate their behaviors,” says Leslie Mar’Na, senior program manager at the shelter. “The victim tends to stay in an abusive relationship so the family is not threatened or killed.”
Mar’Na recommends that victims plan a quiet escape to safe shelter if they feel they are in a life-threatening situation. Leaving devices that can track whereabouts such as phone and tablets should be left behind. My Sisters’ Place allows victims of domestic violence to leave the situation and have a safe place to go with their children in order to get back on their feet and create a life that they would like to have.
Counseling and Support
“Counseling is extremely important after leaving a domestic violence relationship to ensure they do not return to the abuse,” continues Mar’Na. “Abusers are extremely good at putting the victim down, convincing them that they are the cause of the problem and that they are to blame for the abuse.” In addition to providing shelter, My Sisters’ Place offers counseling, support groups, and victim advocacy.
In America, one woman is fatally shot by a spouse, ex-spouse or dating partner every 14 hours. My Sisters' Place provides a safe place for survivors to get help. You can help by supporting our work! For more information about My Sisters’ Place or if you are in an abusive relationship and need immediate assistance, please call the 24-hour hotline at 480-821-1024.
