Domestic Violence Support Group Activities
Becoming a victim of abuse does not happen overnight. Over time, abnormal ways of life become normal to the victim. There are ways to promote domestic violence support group activities that can help lead a victim to survivorship and healing. The activities should provide a way to present different outcomes than the ones victims envision. Fun normal activities should also be included to provide a sense of normalcy to domestic abuse victims reaching towards healing.
- Know that there are many domestic abuse support group activities that can help victims. The activities should be in a safe place where the victims will feel comfortable.
- Take some time to learn some relaxation exercises. Living in an abusive situation causes a lot of stress. Part of breaking the cycle of abuse is learning how to vent all of the pent up emotions in a healthy way.
- Make a dream board or poster that is specific for each participant in the group. The idea of having hope and focusing on these things can help a victim look forward to the future. This is a way of combating the hopelessness that many domestic abuse victims feel.
- Have each group member come up with and write down a safety plan. Loss of security is part of the effects of domestic abuse. This is one way to help gain a feeling of control back.
- Keep journals that may be kept in a safe place. Writing uses other parts of the brain and sensory system and helps vent feelings and emotions in a helpful manner. A journal is one way to look back on what is really going on in the victim’s life. Successes and back steps can all be reread to encourage forward positive movement.
- Share experiences without putting anyone on the spot. Holding all of the secrets in puts tremendous strain on an abuse victim. The counselor can even share some scenarios to get the talk started.
- Use movies and fun normal activities to help keep some balance in life.