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From Awareness to Action: How We Can Support Survivors of Domestic Violence

  • NYS TINRC
two people sitting with their back faced, one with their arm over the other's shoulder

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

It’s a time to raise awareness about domestic violence, recognize the signs of abuse and learn what resources are available for survivors. But learning isn’t enough. We need to take action – at home, at work, and in our communities – to promote healthy relationships.

The New York State Trauma-Informed Network and Resource Center (NYS TINRC) is committed to helping people and organizations understand trauma and how to respond with compassion. We believe that everyone should feel safe when asking for help and together we can create spaces that allow survivors to know that compassionate help is available.

Survivors Deserve Safe, Supportive Help

When trauma-informed practices are in place, we make sure that we support survivors by focusing on safety, respect, and trust.  Trauma informed responses include believing the survivor, being flexible, offering choices, respecting their culture and identity, and actively engaging in ways to not retraumatize.

When someone is living with abuse, reaching out for help can be scary. Survivors might turn to a hospital, shelter, school, or court system. But too often, these places aren’t fully equipped to meet their needs due to lack of training and limited resources.

Survivors may face:

  • People who don’t believe them
  • Rules that feel too strict or confusing
  • Services that ignore their culture or identity
  • Questions that bring up painful memories

These experiences can make things worse instead of better and may even stop someone from asking for help again.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

What Does Trauma-Informed Support Look Like?

Being trauma-informed means we think about what people have been through and how to help without causing more harm. It means asking, “What happened to you?”  instead of “What’s wrong with you?”

Here are a few ways systems and people can be more supportive:

  • Ask what helps them feel safe: Use kind words and a calm tone of voice. Give people space. Let them know what to expect.
  • Be honest and clear. Explain things in simple terms. Follow through on what you say and when there are unexpected changes, circle back with next steps.
  • Give choices. Ask what the person wants. Don’t force decisions or rush them.
  • Respect their culture and identity. Use the name and pronouns they choose. Offer language translation if needed.
  • Focus on strengths. Survivors are strong. Remind them of that and help them build on their strengths.

These small changes can make a big difference.

What You Can Do

Whether you work in a school, a clinic, a nonprofit, or just care about your community, you have the power to help.

Here are some steps to take this month and beyond:

  • Get informed.
  • Review your policies and practices. Are your policies clear, transparent, and implemented consistently? What practices are in place to increase a sense of safety and that people feel welcomed?
  • Create safe spaces. Even small changes can help people feel more at ease. For example, giving someone the choice where they sit in a room and if the door is open or closed, can increase someone’s sense of safety and control.
  • Speak up. If you see a better way to support survivors, say something. A trauma informed approach means reducing the chance of re-traumatizing someone. For example, instead of a survivor having to tell their story over and over to multiple people, create a process where they only need to tell the story once.
  • Support survivor-led Domestic Violence groups. Donate, volunteer, or share their work.

Let’s Build a Community of Care

Domestic violence affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and communities. When we respond with trauma-informed practices, and understanding, we help survivors feel seen, safe, and supported.

This October let’s do more than talk. Let’s act – with care, with courage, and with community.

Visit www.traumainformedny.org to learn more and get involved.

The NYS TINRC Newsletter is produced by CCSI. The views, opinions, and content expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or policies of the New York State Office of Mental Health (NYS OMH).

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