Here are more tips to opening the conversation with your family member in a way that is safe for you and for them.
Find a private moment to start the conversation
They may not be ready to talk, and that is OK. The best opportunity to ask questions is when you two are alone and their partner, children, or other people are not present.
Ask intentional questions and give time for them to respond
Let someone know you noticed a certain kind of abusive behavior from the list of 10 signs, and you're concerned about their safety. Ask: "Do you want to have a conversation about what happened?"
Be mindful of your own biases and assumptions
If the conversation doesn't go the way you hoped, remember sometimes the way we see things is only a fraction of the full reality. IPV is a complex issue and leaving an abusive relationship can be complicated and dangerous. Do not push someone to make decisions they are not ready to make.
Connect them to expert resources
When someone opens up, offer support emotionally and connect them to resources: "Thank you for telling me. I'm sorry you experienced that." or "You deserve to be safe." Then, ask if they would like to be connected with an expert and take a next step. Have these resources ready to share: birthjusticephilly.com/pages/resources.
Prioritize safety for them and for you
Remember to think about your own safety. It can be dangerous to you or to the survivor to intervene in an incident. Think about opportunities to connect with a survivor privately, call the DV Hotline for recommendations, or 9-1-1 in an emergency.