10/21/2026
According to the Kentucky Justice and Public Safety Cabinet, more than 45% of women and 35% of men will experience domestic violence in their lifetime. Everyone knows someone who has been a victim of abuse, whether or not they talk openly about it. Itβs important to understand that this is a community problem, and not just an uncomfortable personal issue. Here are some doβs and donβts for supporting someone you think is being abused:
ππ:
Approach the person at a time and place that is safe and confidential.
Start by expressing concern, such as, βI am worried about your safetyβ.
Take the time to listen and believe what they say.
πππβπ:
Donβt accuse, diagnose or judge their choices, or draw conclusions about what they may be experiencing or feeling
Donβt pressure them to leave the abusive relationship. There are many reasons they may choose to stay. Itβs never as simple as encouraging them to βjust leaveβ, but always communicate that help does exist and that people care about them and want them to be safe.
Donβt feel the need to be an expert. Donβt try to provide counseling or advice, but instead connect them to trained people who can help. GreenHouse17, our regional domestic violence program, has a 24 hour hotline at 800-544-2022. The GPD victims advocate can be reached at 502-863-7826.
