We know that reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. To help ease your anxiety and hesitation about calling HAWC, here are a few things you can expect during and after your initial call.
Break the ice
When you call our hotline, remind yourself that this is the first small step towards achieving the violence-free, happy life and healthy relationships you deserve! HAWC’s hotline is completely confidential and anonymous, and no one will force you to take any steps that you are uncomfortable with. We are committed to providing supportive, non-judgmental service to anyone experiencing domestic violence.
Review the essentials
While HAWC trains volunteers and staff members extensively, each domestic violence survivor has a unique story. There are many ways to describe your situation and help HAWC understand your needs, including describing concerns you’ve had about this relationship, recalling a recent altercation, or providing HAWC with a timeline of your relationship. If you are unsure whether you’re experiencing abuse, this can help HAWC help you better assess your situation. Sharing your story can feel scary, but HAWC’s hotline promises you patience and understanding above all else.
Brainstorm
Once HAWC understands your situation, you can begin making plans. Volunteers and staff at HAWC’s hotline can help you schedule in-person appointments at HAWC, make future safety plans, connect with other resources in your area, or learn how to better communicate with your support network. There is always more than one solution, and HAWC can help you determine which path is right without pushing you to take any steps you might be uncomfortable with.
Continuing the conversation
After calling HAWC, you might have more questions or feel more comfortable discussing something that you weren’t ready to share earlier. HAWC is always available to answer questions about domestic violence, unhealthy relationships, and safety.
For your safety
HAWC is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. We encourage victims experiencing abuse to reach out when they know their abuser is not around. If an abuser finds you on the phone with HAWC, immediately disconnect the call. Remember, delete our number from your phone, and clear your Internet browser’s history after visiting our web site.
Anyone seeking information, support, shelter, or legal services can call HAWC. However, if you are in immediate danger, call 911. To understand if what you’re experiencing is abuse, share your story, schedule an in-person appointment, or start making a safety plan, call and connect with a trained volunteer or staff member today.