How to Support a Loved One

The Rose Andom Center accepts walk-in, in-person, and phone appointments during regular business hours from 9:00 am-5:00 pm Monday–Thursday and 9:00 am-12:00 pm on Fridays.

Domestic violence is extremely complex and individual experiences can vary. There is a statistic that states: “2 out of 3 Americans experience DV and have NEVER talked about domestic violence with their friends.” Victims of domestic violence often feel ashamed, alone, and due to the stigma, don’t talk about their experience. As a society, we must talk about it as SILENCE creates more violence. Talking about domestic violence and getting involved can be the difference between life and death for some victims.

If you know someone or suspect that someone you know is experiencing domestic violence (also known as intimate partner violence), there are several things you can do to help and support them:

  • Listen:
    • Don’t tell them what to do. Domestic violence is based on power and control. You want to help empower your loved one and not be another person that has power and control over them.
  • Validate their feelings
  • Don’t Judge:
    • Often, judgment is victim-blaming and could make a victim become defensive as well as more isolated and they may not want to seek support.
  • Believe Them:
    • Often, people who choose to abuse, are charming and can be more believable.
  • Respect Them:
    • Respect their choices even if you disagree. They are the experts in their own life.
  • Helpful Comments:
    • “It is not your fault”
    • “There is nothing you did to deserve this”
    • “You deserve to be treated with respect”
    • “You deserve to feel safe in your own home/place”
    • “You are not alone”
    • “I am here for you”
  • Offer Resources:
    • Rose Andom Center
      • 720-337-4400
    • SafeHouse Denver
      • 303-318-9989 – 24/7 crisis and information line
    • National Domestic Violence Hotline
      • 800-799-SAFE (7233) – 24/7 crisis line

Remember, you are there to offer your love and support, not to rescue them. Let your loved one know that you will be there for them no matter what choices they make. If you need assistance on how to help your loved one, the Rose Andom Center is available to help.

Holiday Closure Notice

The Rose Andom Center will be closed on Monday, February 16, in observance of Presidents Day. We will reopen on Tuesday, February 17.

If you need support during this time, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233) or SafeHouse Denver’s crisis line at 303-318-9989

Aviso de Cierre por Día Festivo

El Rose Andom Center estará cerrado el lunes 16 de febrero en conmemoración del Día de los Presidentes. Volveremos a abrir el martes 17 de febrero.

Si necesita apoyo durante este tiempo, comuníquese con la Línea Nacional de Violencia Doméstica al 800-799-SAFE (7233) o a la línea de crisis de SafeHouse Denver al 303-318-9989