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If you are a victim of domestic abuse, you are not alone. It is crucial to find a supportive group and environment to help you cope with the physical, mental, and emotional anguish that can result from abuse. There are many ways in which you can create a support circle for yourself, including:

• Set up your TSC Survivor Profile
• Join support groups of other survivors or set up your own
• Interact and provide updates on your profile or our forums

Once domestic violence is recognized, it is also important to formulate a plan to remove yourself from the situation. Putting together safety plan can help. Other resources for finding support include:

• Domestic Violence
• National Coalition Against Domestic Violence
• Women's Center: Domestic Violence - Myths and Realities

Emergency room doctors are the physicians that generally treat -- and identify -- domestic violence. Know how you can use a visit to the emergency room as part of your safety plan. Read eMedicineHealth: Domestic Violence - Emergency Department Care to learn more. When domestic violence results in visits to doctors and hospitals, you may need to understand what your options are for financial support. It is important to know exactly what your insurance rights are. Check with your insurance company and health-care provider to make sure medical bills for domestic violence are covered. You may also want to to check the State Unemployment Insurance Laws for Victims of Domestic Violence to find out whether or not you are entitled to unemployment if you have been involved in domestic violence.

It is important to talk out your feelings with a mental health provider. Health-care coverage plans will refer you to these professionals for a consultation. After the consultation, a team of professionals that includes physicians and specialists will get involved in your treatment to aid in your recovery.To find a mental health organization directly, visit CDC: Mental Health - Organizations by State

Other resources to find professional help include:

• A Safe Place Lake County Crisis Center Domestic Violence Shelter
• NCADV: State Coalition List

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