How to stop abusive situation

Domestic violence can occur in a college setting. There are dorm rooms where a couple can be left alone together during a fight and violence can occur. Dorm rooms can be the very place that couples at OU are victims of domestic violence.

The majority of people don’t want to speak up if they are involved in domestic violence, which makes sense. They can be ashamed, embarrassed or their perpetrator could have threatened them if they tell anyone, but no one should be living in danger.

I thought that I would just inform readers of some things they can consider, in an anonymous manner, if they think they are in an abusive relationship.

Domesticviolence.org gives great information regarding what to do if you are in an abusive situation, and I just wanted to share some things that I learned that you can use if you feel you are in danger.

First off, call the police. If you feel like you are in any danger whatsoever, you can call 911 or your local police department.

Consider the following:
• If you are in danger when the police come, they can protect you
• They can arrest your abuser when they have enough proof that you have been abused
• When the police arrive, tell them everything.

• If you have been hit, tell the police where. Tell them how many times it happened. Show them any marks left on your body. Marks may take time to show up. If you see a mark after the police leave, call the police to take pictures of the marks. They may be used in court.

• The police can give you information on shelters
• Tell your family and friends what has happened as well as visit the school nurse and Donna Washington. They are there to help you.

Someone may be scared to tell if they are in danger or in an abusive relationship, but instead of being scared, you can be saved. Tell someone what is happening and they can help keep you safe, or get you what you need to be kept safe.