Which is sadder to think about: (1) The fact that countless men and women around the United States are being victimized by domestic violence; or, (2) the fact that victims could make the violence stop at the touch of a button if they knew about the resources available to them, right now? The fact is, no one needs to put up with any kind of domestic violence, and the National Domestic Violence Hotline, family law attorneys and countless other programs are available to offer information and guidance in this regard.

The first step toward stopping domestic abuse involves legal action. A call to police and an application for a protection order is usually all that's required for victims to receive protection from their abusers and to get their abusers out of their lives forever. However, this is just the first "worldly and practical" step. Before moving forward like this -- even before calling for help -- victims need to find their voices; they need to be empowered. They need to get their heads out of the fog of insecurity, fear and sadness -- and the clinging to old love dreams -- that happen when we have immense love for the person who's abusing and hurting us so deeply.

Sometimes, a human voice who understands what you're going through -- and understands the full power of the law and what's possible for those being abused -- is what victims require. Is this person a psychologist? Is this person a mental health counselor? Is it your dentist or your medical doctor? Is it your close friend or family member? It might start with someone like this. Essentially, what you may need is someone who can reason you out of the fog of doubt that every abuse victim experiences.

Finally, you may want to consider reaching out to a Colorado family law attorney. An attorney can show you how the law and government services are there -- just waiting to support you along every step of the way. An attorney can help you climb out of a life of abuse and into a life of empowerment. Best of all: This legal process is much easier, faster and less expensive than you think.

Source: The National Domestic Violence Hotline, "Quick Look: Police Reports and Protective Orders," accessed June 23, 2017