Battered women once felt so ashamed and helpless that they hid their bruises behind their own doors. But battering no longer needs to be the battered woman's burdensome secret. The battered woman who's punched, kicked, slapped, threatened, or in some way brutally mistreated should know she's not alone. One estimate says that in the U.S. this year, some 4 million women will be physically abused by their partner, a family member, or someone they know.

      Not only are battered women learning that other women are coping with "her" problem, they're also learning about organizations, domestic violence programs, agencies, hot lines, and people who can help. More often now women are daring to walk away from the person who is abusing her or her children. She's showing up in emergency rooms of her hospital, in doctor's offices, mental health clinics, police stations, court administration offices, and with friends and family who care. If she has access to the appropriate information, she'll use the hot lines, task forces, and temporary safe housing and shelters.

      If you know someone who is being abused or you are someone who is being abused, we encourage you to contact a battered woman's program for confidential help and information. They have trained advocates who specialize in areas and issues regarding domestic abuse. Check your phone book for the number of a program near you.