Advocacy / Domestic Violence
Abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, digital, and financial abuse. These resources were created with women in mind, but support is available to anyone experiencing harm in a relationship. Even if you are not sure whether what you are experiencing is abuse, you can still reach out. You do not have to wait for an emergency to ask for help.
You are not to blame. You deserve to feel safe, respected, and free to make your own choices. A trained advocate can listen without judgment, answer questions, and help you think through your options. You will not be pressured to leave or make a decision before you are ready.
You can connect with a trained advocate any time, day or night. Support is free and confidential throughout the United States.
Abuse is not always physical. It can be any pattern of behavior used to control, frighten, isolate, or take power away from another person. It may start slowly, change over time, or continue after a relationship ends.
Start with whatever feels most helpful today. Visiting these websites may leave a record in your browser history. If someone may be monitoring your activity, consider using a safer device if one is available.
A safety plan can help you find ways to stay safer while living with abuse, preparing to leave, or after leaving. Every situation is different, and an advocate can help you create a plan that fits your life.
Start safety planning →Search for domestic violence shelters and support programs by city or ZIP code in the United States and Canada. An international directory is also available.
Find local help →Find clear, state-specific information about protection orders, custody, housing, workplace rights, and free or low-cost legal help.
Visit WomensLaw →Learn how to respond to location tracking, strengthen account security, check connected devices, document harmful behavior, and protect yourself from technology-based abuse.
Explore technology safety →FreeFrom offers survivor-led tools for recognizing financial control and working toward greater financial security during and after abuse.
Explore financial resources →RAINN offers free, confidential support around the clock. Call 800-656-HOPE (4673), text HOPE to 64673, or connect through online chat.
Contact RAINN →You deserve support that understands your experiences, identity, culture, and communication needs. The following services are free and confidential.
StrongHearts Native Helpline offers culturally grounded support for Native Americans and Alaska Natives, 24 hours a day.
Call 844-762-8483 →The Deaf Hotline provides advocacy in ASL through videophone, email, and live chat, 24 hours a day.
Call 855-812-1001 by videophone →Love is respect offers support for young people with questions or concerns about dating and relationships. Call 866-331-9474 or text LOVEIS to 22522.
Visit love is respect →Search for domestic and sexual violence services by country and region.
Find international support →A caring, judgment-free response can help someone feel less alone. Trust that they understand their situation best, and respect their right to decide what happens next.
Learn to recognize the signs of abuse. Speak up when language excuses control or violence. Respect survivors and the choices they make for themselves. Share trusted resources privately and carefully. You can also donate to or volunteer with a local domestic violence program. Local advocates understand the needs of the people and communities they serve.
Find ways to help →This page offers general educational information and is not a substitute for legal or medical advice. Services and contact information were reviewed in August 2026. Please confirm current details directly with each organization. While these resources center women, support is available to survivors of every gender and identity.
