Domestic victims often need help

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Domestic violence can result in death, injury and heartbreak to victims and those they know.

Sharon Morgan is a survivor of domestic abuse.

"He was primarily psychologically and verbally abusive to me, with some physical," she said.

The vast majority of abuse is not physical.

Morgan said, "You know, you face a daily barrage of insults and mental abuse that keeps you down and attacks your self-worth, you may even begin to believe that you deserve to be treated in that way."

Family Justice Center executive director Mary Travers Murphy said, "It is not your fault. You are not responsible for this and you do not deserve it."

At the center, victims of domestic abuse can get comprehensive assistance, including medical and legal help, along with a safety plan and guidance in how to leave the abusive relationship. Morgan was hoping that after their baby was born, her abuser would change.

"Research is painfully clear," said Murphy. "Abusers do not change. Abusers will tell you they'll change."

Morgan said, "Deep down inside I knew it wouldn't work out, but I held on to that hope. And when I saw that things didn't change, then I started planning to get out."

When women leave, that's the most dangerous time.

"I got in the habit of hiding knives and scissors, anything sharp, because I was afraid he would use them on me, I was afraid to sleep," Morgan said.

It took her months to get out, and now she's helping other women. If you, or someone you know, is a victim, effective help is available.

Murphy said, "Every day we see women successfully exiting these relationships. But you do need a safety plan and you do need to be surrounded by the different service agencies that we have."

"We have to speak out and let people know and get the whole community involved in ending it," Morgan said.