March 31, 2025
Dear Survivors and Friends,
Safety can feel elusive in the darkest moments, but with support, resources, and incredible resilience, freedom is possible. This month, we’re sharing a survivor’s story of courage to inspire hope and strength and providing actionable steps you can take to achieve physical and emotional safety.
A Story of Survival and Strength
For one survivor, the road to safety was fraught with challenges. Living in captivity, they had no access to friends or family for support, and even stepping out of the door felt impossible. The emotional weight of their situation vacillated between brief flashes of hope and a suffocating sense of despair.
One day, in a small pocket of courage, they reached out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. This was their first lifeline to freedom. Through thoughtful guidance and connection to resources, they were able to relocate hours away to safety.
Free from their abuser, they found shelter and began the hard work of rebuilding their life. This wasn’t an easy road. Fear lingered, and moments of doubt crept in. But what emerged stronger than the fear was their resilience and determination. Today, they’re thriving, discovering their own strength, and sharing their story to show others that there is a path forward.
This story is a reminder to anyone in a similar situation that no matter how unreachable safety feels, it is possible.
Actionable Tips for Safety & Strength
Whether you or someone you know is in an unsafe situation, these tips can help create a plan for physical and emotional security.
1. Seek Support from Trusted Resources
The National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233) is available 24/7 to provide guidance and connect you to shelters, counseling, and local resources. If you can’t talk safely, you can use their chat option at thehotline.org.
2. Create a Safety Plan
If leaving isn’t immediately possible, consider these steps to increase your safety until the time is right:
- Identify a safe exit strategy and where you can go during dangerous situations.
- Memorize or hide essential documents (ID, birth certificates, financial records).
- Keep a hidden bag with necessities like clothes, cash, important numbers, extra phone charger and medication.
3. Connect to a Shelter Near You
Many shelters offer not only a safe space but legal assistance, counseling, and case management to support your transition to independence.
4. Focus on Emotional Recovery
Leaving a dangerous situation is just the first step. Rebuilding emotionally will take time. Here’s how to begin reclaiming your strength:
- Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself as you heal. Every small step forward is a victory.
- Seek Counseling: Trauma-informed therapists can help you process the experience and rediscover your sense of self. Often domestic violence agencies offer counseling for free.
- Find Community: Support groups, either in person or online, can connect you with others who truly understand your experience. Domestic violence agencies can offer group counseling to increase community.
5. Believe in Your Resilience
Courage doesn’t mean you’re unafraid. It means taking steps even when fear is present. Survivors often discover inner strength they never imagined. You are stronger than you know.
A Message of Hope
To anyone reading this who feels trapped or without options, know that you are not alone. Resources exist, and people are ready to help you take the first step toward safety. Like the survivor in our story, strength and freedom are within your reach.
Help is always available. Reach out when you’re ready and know that your bravery is more powerful than the obstacles you face.
Blessings and Healing,