Crisis line callers often make several calls before they identify themselves or ask for help. It is not an easy task to confide in someone you do not know so it is critical that Crisis Intervention Advocates be trained to assist in that process. Sandra was hesitant to call the crisis line after her employer provided her with one of the cards. She kept the card hidden so her abusive husband would not find it. Sandra realized that she needed to get help or else she would be killed by her husband. The third time Sandra called the crisis line was after an incident of severe physical abuse that left her injured and in the hospital. She knew her options were limited and found that her hospital room was a safe place to call. The Advocate was calm and reassuring during the call and helped to alleviate Sandra's fears. She was able to tell her story. Sandra was a 40 year old mother of two children, ages 10 and 12. Her children were placed in foster care as a result of the domestic violence in the home. Sandra was devastated with the loss of her children and realized she needed to leave her husband in order to reclaim her life and regain custody of the children. The abuse was escalating and now included threats of suicide as well as homicide. The Advocate explained that these were two red flags in assessing risk of harm and lethality in a domestic violence case. Sandra had never heard of red flags but was reassured when she realized there were many in her marriage and it was time to seek safety. In a single phone call she learned about red flags in a violent relationship and the cycle of abuse and elevations of risk and lethality.
Her call to the crisis line changed her life at a time when she thought it was over.
The Advocate walked Sandra through a detailed safety plan that included everything from where she kept her car keys to what her husband's work schedule was, to being observant for any type of stalking behavior. Sandra learned that the risk of violence increased at the time of leaving and that is why it was important to have a safety plan in place. Sandra confided in the Advocate that she was still afraid to leave but knew she had to. She had broken ribs, black eyes, choke marks on her neck and a fractured wrist. Sandra decided to come to the shelter right from the hospital and avoid any type of confrontation with her husband. He was at work and scheduled to visit her around 4:30 so arrangements were made with local law enforcement to transport her to the shelter when the doctor's released her at 3:00. Sandra was unsure of what to expect when she arrived at the shelter and afraid of what people would think when they saw her injuries. When she arrived she was treated with care and respect. No one acted shocked to see her. An Advocate took photos of her injuries in case she would need them for court. Once she entered the shelter and completed the intake process, she was surprised to know how many services and resources were available to her. She was already employed so she was eligible for a housing program designed specifically for survivors of domestic violence. Sandra participated in several support groups and an on-site parenting group. She was encouraged by the strength of the other women in the shelter. She was also surprised when she realized she was not the only woman to go through this. When Sandra moved into her own apartment, after 60 days in the shelter and filing a protective order with the assistance of her ,Advocate, she was strong and determined to move forward. She was granted overnight visitation with her children and is working towards reunification. Her call to the crisis line changed her life at a time when she thought it was over.