Domestic violence is when a person in a relationship is either emotional of physically harmed by their partner. The abuser will use violence in order to become the dominant one in the relationship. It’s important that anyone currently in an abusive relationship to leave that person as quickly as possible, but to stay safe.

If the violence is getting out of control, leave your place immediately. Head to your local crisis center or police station to seek help. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence has a website that will list all their locations in your area.

As soon as you can, remember to change both your home number and cell phone. Only give the new number to those you trust. If he tries to contact you in any way, it’s important to document it as evidence for police.

With an abuse claims it’s important to have physical evidence. Without it, he could walk free. If you’ve got bruises, take photos. This is evidence that will help you put him behind bars if you make the brave decision to press charges.

If you think he could find you, figure out a new escape route. It’s best to not go into a room like your room, which has potential weapons.

If possible, get yourself a new routine. Go a different way to work and be sure to leave your home at a different time. It’s better to leave earlier than you normally do. These small changes could help keep your abuser away.

Speak with someone who has experience with domestic abuse. The only way to heal and move forward is to talk about it. They could also help you if you’re interested in pressing charges, but is too afraid too. File a permanent restraining order. This means your abuser can’t legally go within a certain amount of distance from you.

If you need to get items back from your abuser, do it in a public space and in broad daylight. If you can have a friend or someone else go with you and a precaution.