Best Domestic Violence Support Groups

When it comes to healing from domestic violence, it helps to have people you can talk to on a regular basis. This ongoing communication not only helps you make sense of what you’re experiencing, but also provides support, validation, and resources from people who have been through the same things you’ve been through.

To help you determine which online support group is best for you, we reviewed the most well-known options available in the United States. Here is an overview of the best online support groups for domestic violence.

The Best Domestic Violence Support GroupsBest Starting Point:National Domestic Violence HotlineBest Online Options:Hope RecoveryBest for Ongoing Support:Fort RefugeBest Social Media Group:DomesticShelters.org Victims and Survivors CommunityBest for Teens:Love Is Respect

Best Domestic Violence Support GroupsView AllBest Domestic Violence Support GroupsOur Top PicksNational Domestic Violence HotlineHope RecoveryFort RefugeDomesticShelters.org Victims and Survivors CommunityLove Is RespectSee More (2)Final VerdictCompare ProvidersFAQsMethodology

Best Domestic Violence Support GroupsView All

View All

Best Domestic Violence Support Groups

Final Verdict

Compare Providers

FAQs

Methodology

Best Starting Point:National Domestic Violence Hotline

National Domestic Violence HotlineMembership fee:FreeStructure:Phone, text, live chat, resourcesSign Up Now

National Domestic Violence Hotline

Membership fee:FreeStructure:Phone, text, live chat, resourcesSign Up Now

Why We Chose It

Pros & Cons

ProsCompassionate, confidential supportServices available in Spanish, ASLSupport available 24 hours a dayConsNo Zoom or video conferencing option for those who prefer themAlthough the National Domestic Violence Hotline (NDVH) is not an actual support group with members, this organization provides the best one-on-one support of any organization on the Internet. They are equipped to deal with people currently in crisis and in need of immediate support, as well as those who have left an abusive relationship.If you’re interested in contacting NDVH, you can call them or use the live chat option on their website. What’s more, their highly-trained advocates are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. As a result, they offer free, compassionate, and confidential support to anyone who needs it, any time of day.So, whether you just need to talk or you’re in the middle of a crisis situation, there is always someone there to help you when you need it most. Additionally, their highly trained advocates can offer intervention information, education, and referral services in Spanish and ASL in addition to English. They can help you find a shelter or support group in your area that meets your needs.You can contact theNational Domestic Violence Hotlinefor the live chat option or call1-800-799-7233for confidential assistance from trained advocates. For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.

ProsCompassionate, confidential supportServices available in Spanish, ASLSupport available 24 hours a dayConsNo Zoom or video conferencing option for those who prefer them

ProsCompassionate, confidential supportServices available in Spanish, ASLSupport available 24 hours a day

Compassionate, confidential support

Services available in Spanish, ASL

Support available 24 hours a day

ConsNo Zoom or video conferencing option for those who prefer them

No Zoom or video conferencing option for those who prefer them

Although the National Domestic Violence Hotline (NDVH) is not an actual support group with members, this organization provides the best one-on-one support of any organization on the Internet. They are equipped to deal with people currently in crisis and in need of immediate support, as well as those who have left an abusive relationship.

If you’re interested in contacting NDVH, you can call them or use the live chat option on their website. What’s more, their highly-trained advocates are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. As a result, they offer free, compassionate, and confidential support to anyone who needs it, any time of day.

So, whether you just need to talk or you’re in the middle of a crisis situation, there is always someone there to help you when you need it most. Additionally, their highly trained advocates can offer intervention information, education, and referral services in Spanish and ASL in addition to English. They can help you find a shelter or support group in your area that meets your needs.

You can contact theNational Domestic Violence Hotlinefor the live chat option or call1-800-799-7233for confidential assistance from trained advocates. For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.

How to Deal With COVID Anxiety Syndrome

Best Online Options:Hope RecoveryHope RecoveryMembership fee:FreeStructure:In-person, online (Zoom), classesSign Up NowWhy We Chose ItHope Recovery, dedicated to providing helping adult survivors of abuse and sexual trauma, offers a variety of support group options.Pros & ConsProsGroups are limited to 8-10 membersOffers men’s survivor support groupsPTSD and self-care workshopsConsSome groups are only available onlineOf all the online support groups we researched, Hope Recovery seemed to have the most options for support as well as the best handle on using an online format for supporting survivors of domestic violence. This nonprofit organization is committed to providing support for adult survivors of abuse andsexual trauma.What’s more, they have a wide variety of support group options as well as newsletters, workshops, and other resources. For instance, their application has options for several domestic violence recovery support groups, faith-based support groups, apost-traumatic stress disorder(PTSD) support group, and even a male survivor support group.They also have a detailed application in order to join one of their private groups. And they offer Facebook groups as well. As for security, they recently upgraded their security practices and require a password for their members to open and read their emails. This practice is especially useful for survivors whose ex-partners stalk them online or engage in digital abuse.Hope Recovery also provides a free publication,Bridge of Hope, which is their online trauma anddissociationpublication. This publication is filled with useful information and can be downloaded directly from their website. They offer a similar publication,Nourishing Hearts, which focuses on healing from trauma and eating disorders.Overall, Hope Recovery’s online support groups are designed to support survivors of abuse and sexual trauma. They provide a variety of online support groups, workshops, newsletters, and publications to help educate and support those who are working toward healing. And because many sexual trauma survivors also deal with PTSD, dissociation,eating disorders, and even addictions,they offer support groups and resources to help people deal with these issues as well.

Best Online Options:Hope Recovery

Hope RecoveryMembership fee:FreeStructure:In-person, online (Zoom), classesSign Up NowWhy We Chose ItHope Recovery, dedicated to providing helping adult survivors of abuse and sexual trauma, offers a variety of support group options.Pros & ConsProsGroups are limited to 8-10 membersOffers men’s survivor support groupsPTSD and self-care workshopsConsSome groups are only available onlineOf all the online support groups we researched, Hope Recovery seemed to have the most options for support as well as the best handle on using an online format for supporting survivors of domestic violence. This nonprofit organization is committed to providing support for adult survivors of abuse andsexual trauma.What’s more, they have a wide variety of support group options as well as newsletters, workshops, and other resources. For instance, their application has options for several domestic violence recovery support groups, faith-based support groups, apost-traumatic stress disorder(PTSD) support group, and even a male survivor support group.They also have a detailed application in order to join one of their private groups. And they offer Facebook groups as well. As for security, they recently upgraded their security practices and require a password for their members to open and read their emails. This practice is especially useful for survivors whose ex-partners stalk them online or engage in digital abuse.Hope Recovery also provides a free publication,Bridge of Hope, which is their online trauma anddissociationpublication. This publication is filled with useful information and can be downloaded directly from their website. They offer a similar publication,Nourishing Hearts, which focuses on healing from trauma and eating disorders.Overall, Hope Recovery’s online support groups are designed to support survivors of abuse and sexual trauma. They provide a variety of online support groups, workshops, newsletters, and publications to help educate and support those who are working toward healing. And because many sexual trauma survivors also deal with PTSD, dissociation,eating disorders, and even addictions,they offer support groups and resources to help people deal with these issues as well.

Hope RecoveryMembership fee:FreeStructure:In-person, online (Zoom), classesSign Up Now

Hope Recovery

Membership fee:FreeStructure:In-person, online (Zoom), classesSign Up Now

Why We Chose ItHope Recovery, dedicated to providing helping adult survivors of abuse and sexual trauma, offers a variety of support group options.Pros & ConsProsGroups are limited to 8-10 membersOffers men’s survivor support groupsPTSD and self-care workshopsConsSome groups are only available onlineOf all the online support groups we researched, Hope Recovery seemed to have the most options for support as well as the best handle on using an online format for supporting survivors of domestic violence. This nonprofit organization is committed to providing support for adult survivors of abuse andsexual trauma.What’s more, they have a wide variety of support group options as well as newsletters, workshops, and other resources. For instance, their application has options for several domestic violence recovery support groups, faith-based support groups, apost-traumatic stress disorder(PTSD) support group, and even a male survivor support group.They also have a detailed application in order to join one of their private groups. And they offer Facebook groups as well. As for security, they recently upgraded their security practices and require a password for their members to open and read their emails. This practice is especially useful for survivors whose ex-partners stalk them online or engage in digital abuse.Hope Recovery also provides a free publication,Bridge of Hope, which is their online trauma anddissociationpublication. This publication is filled with useful information and can be downloaded directly from their website. They offer a similar publication,Nourishing Hearts, which focuses on healing from trauma and eating disorders.Overall, Hope Recovery’s online support groups are designed to support survivors of abuse and sexual trauma. They provide a variety of online support groups, workshops, newsletters, and publications to help educate and support those who are working toward healing. And because many sexual trauma survivors also deal with PTSD, dissociation,eating disorders, and even addictions,they offer support groups and resources to help people deal with these issues as well.

Hope Recovery, dedicated to providing helping adult survivors of abuse and sexual trauma, offers a variety of support group options.

ProsGroups are limited to 8-10 membersOffers men’s survivor support groupsPTSD and self-care workshopsConsSome groups are only available onlineOf all the online support groups we researched, Hope Recovery seemed to have the most options for support as well as the best handle on using an online format for supporting survivors of domestic violence. This nonprofit organization is committed to providing support for adult survivors of abuse andsexual trauma.What’s more, they have a wide variety of support group options as well as newsletters, workshops, and other resources. For instance, their application has options for several domestic violence recovery support groups, faith-based support groups, apost-traumatic stress disorder(PTSD) support group, and even a male survivor support group.They also have a detailed application in order to join one of their private groups. And they offer Facebook groups as well. As for security, they recently upgraded their security practices and require a password for their members to open and read their emails. This practice is especially useful for survivors whose ex-partners stalk them online or engage in digital abuse.Hope Recovery also provides a free publication,Bridge of Hope, which is their online trauma anddissociationpublication. This publication is filled with useful information and can be downloaded directly from their website. They offer a similar publication,Nourishing Hearts, which focuses on healing from trauma and eating disorders.Overall, Hope Recovery’s online support groups are designed to support survivors of abuse and sexual trauma. They provide a variety of online support groups, workshops, newsletters, and publications to help educate and support those who are working toward healing. And because many sexual trauma survivors also deal with PTSD, dissociation,eating disorders, and even addictions,they offer support groups and resources to help people deal with these issues as well.

ProsGroups are limited to 8-10 membersOffers men’s survivor support groupsPTSD and self-care workshopsConsSome groups are only available online

ProsGroups are limited to 8-10 membersOffers men’s survivor support groupsPTSD and self-care workshops

Groups are limited to 8-10 members

Offers men’s survivor support groups

PTSD and self-care workshops

ConsSome groups are only available online

Some groups are only available online

Of all the online support groups we researched, Hope Recovery seemed to have the most options for support as well as the best handle on using an online format for supporting survivors of domestic violence. This nonprofit organization is committed to providing support for adult survivors of abuse andsexual trauma.

What’s more, they have a wide variety of support group options as well as newsletters, workshops, and other resources. For instance, their application has options for several domestic violence recovery support groups, faith-based support groups, apost-traumatic stress disorder(PTSD) support group, and even a male survivor support group.

They also have a detailed application in order to join one of their private groups. And they offer Facebook groups as well. As for security, they recently upgraded their security practices and require a password for their members to open and read their emails. This practice is especially useful for survivors whose ex-partners stalk them online or engage in digital abuse.

Hope Recovery also provides a free publication,Bridge of Hope, which is their online trauma anddissociationpublication. This publication is filled with useful information and can be downloaded directly from their website. They offer a similar publication,Nourishing Hearts, which focuses on healing from trauma and eating disorders.

Overall, Hope Recovery’s online support groups are designed to support survivors of abuse and sexual trauma. They provide a variety of online support groups, workshops, newsletters, and publications to help educate and support those who are working toward healing. And because many sexual trauma survivors also deal with PTSD, dissociation,eating disorders, and even addictions,they offer support groups and resources to help people deal with these issues as well.

Best for Ongoing Support:Fort Refuge

Fort RefugeMembership fee:FreeStructure:Online forums and chatrooms, resources and videosSign Up Now

Fort Refuge

Membership fee:FreeStructure:Online forums and chatrooms, resources and videosSign Up Now

Fort Refuge is an active online community that provides private support groups and forums for survivors of abuse and encourages participants to share and speak freely and honestly.

ProsPrivate, survivors-only forums and chatroomsLarge collection of resources, videos, readingsActive communityConsNo one-on-one sessions

ProsPrivate, survivors-only forums and chatroomsLarge collection of resources, videos, readingsActive community

Private, survivors-only forums and chatrooms

Large collection of resources, videos, readings

Active community

ConsNo one-on-one sessions

No one-on-one sessions

Designed for people over the age of 16, Fort Refuge is an online community that provides private forums and private chat rooms for survivors of abuse. What’s more, they are open to anyone regardless of race, religion,sexual orientation, gender, and mental health history.

Overall, they come together to discuss both their struggles and their victories. And even though they do not have the largest membership numbers, they are one of the most active support groups online.

DomesticShelters.orgMembership fee:FreeStructure:Social media platformSign Up Now

DomesticShelters.org

Membership fee:FreeStructure:Social media platformSign Up Now

Designed to be a safe space for domestic abuse victims, survivors, and advocates, the DomesticShelters.org Victims and Survivors Community offers support through inclusive dialogue and participation.

ProsPrivate groupActive online communityOffers a number of resources and articlesConsFacebook account required

ProsPrivate groupActive online communityOffers a number of resources and articles

Private group

Active online community

Offers a number of resources and articles

ConsFacebook account required

Facebook account required

DomesticShelters.org, which runs the Facebook group, is the first and the largest online searchable database of domestic violence programs and shelters in the United States. They also offer a number of resources and articles that are useful for survivors looking to better understand abuse,safety planning, healing, and more.

In fact, their editorial advisory board is comprised of authors, researchers, and program operators. So, the information they provide is up-to-date and based on the most recent research in the area of domestic violence.

Best for Teens:Love Is Respect

Love Is RespectMembership fee:FreeStructure:Phone, text, live chat, resourcesSign Up Now

Love Is Respect

Specifically designed for young people ages 13 to 26, the Love Is Respect program provides 24/7 supports and guidance, plus an easy-to-use website that offers several resources and helpful insight.

ProsConfidential support available 24/7Advocates are trained on issues related to dating abuse and healthy relationships, and crisis interventionSeveral resources availableConsNo option for Zoom or video chat

ProsConfidential support available 24/7Advocates are trained on issues related to dating abuse and healthy relationships, and crisis interventionSeveral resources available

Confidential support available 24/7

Advocates are trained on issues related to dating abuse and healthy relationships, and crisis intervention

Several resources available

ConsNo option for Zoom or video chat

No option for Zoom or video chat

This type of format seems to be really helpful for today’s teenagers, who have limited time and unpredictable schedules, making it difficult for them to attend a group at a set time each week.

Overall, Love Is Respect is an extension of NDVH and is designed for young people ages 13 to 26. They provide information, support, and advocacy to teens and young adults who have questions or concerns about their romantic relationships.

Love Is Respect also makes its services available for concerned parents, teachers, and counselors who want input on how best to support a teen in an abusive dating relationship. In addition to their online support, they also offer comprehensive educational materials, quizzes, testimonials, and interactive pages to help educate teens and prevent future relationship abuse.

Behind the Keyboard: Spotting Digital Dating Abuse

Final VerdictiStockphotoWhether you’re healing from domestic violence or looking for a path to safety and out of an abusive relationship, support groups can help you move forward in your quest to heal from the abuse. Support groups provide a safe, confidential environment for sharing experiences and feelings, learning coping techniques, and other skills to practice self-care. Support groups also allow you to connect with others in a similar situation, which can help with the feelings of loneliness and isolation. These programs are free of charge and many hotlines are available for support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.Compare The Best Domestic Violence Support GroupsCompanyMembership feeStructureNational Domestic Violence HotlineBest Starting PointFreePhone, text, live chat, resourcesHope RecoveryBest Online OptionsFreeIn-person, online (Zoom), classesFort RefugeBest for Ongoing SupportFreeOnline forums and chatrooms, resources and videosDomesticShelters.org Victims and Survivors CommunityBest Social Media GroupFreeSocial media platformLove Is Respectsis interventionBest for TeensFreePhone, text, live chat, resourcesFAQsWho Should Attend a Support Group?Online support groups are not meant to replace counseling or therapy. In fact, while most mental health professionals would advise that attending support group can be a beneficial part of your healing and havepositive effects on interpersonal well-being, it’s important to remember that the groups are not designed to address mental health issues. They are, however, a great place to share what you’re learning or experiencing with people who have gone through the same things you have gone through.Your family members and loved ones may also benefit from support groups. The United States Department of Justice stated that domestic violence has a significant impactnot only on those abused, but also on family members, friends, and on the people within the social networks of both the abuser and the victim.What Are the Benefits of a Support Group?If you are a survivor of domestic violence, it helps to have someone to talk to—especially if you don’t have friends and family members you can turn to. Identifying with others in a similar situation can help reduce the adverse effects ofstigma. Research has also shown that support groups can help improvesymptoms of depressionas they can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and enhance your coping skills.Plus, what’s nice about online support groups is that some of them offer 24-hour chat options. So, on those nights when you can’t sleep or you seem to be ruminating about what happened in your life, it’s nice to have a safe place to sort out your feelings with others who have been through the same thing.Another added benefit of online support groups is that they offer you a completely anonymous option to be transparent about your struggles. And yet, even though you may not be sharing your real name, it’s possible to bond with and develop friendships with the other people in your group.Likewise, being active in a support group is often a complementary component to your overall healing plan. Plus, online support groups can provide you with access to additional resources and information.How Do I Stay Safe in an Online Support Group?When selecting an online support group for domestic violence, it’s important to consider your safety. Even if you are no longer with the person who abused you, there is a chance that they could still be monitoring or stalking you in some way.For this reason, you want to select an online support group that is secure and private. It’s best to avoid public forums and social media groups where anyone can see what is being posted. Likewise, you should not use your real name or a nickname that could allow people to identify who you are.Another way to stay safe is to make sure that you are using a secure computer, clearing your history after you visit an online support group, and not giving out personal information like your address, telephone number, or email address. And, if you’re using a social media support group, you need to refrain from sending people in the group private messages or allowing them to message you. Many times, these messages will pop up on a phone, tablet, or computer as a notification and could put you or someone else at risk.How We Chose the Domestic Violence Support GroupsWhen reviewing online support groups, chat rooms, and forums, we reviewed the largest and most well-known online support groups in the United States. We looked at the services they provide as well the resources available to their participants.Additionally, we reviewed their policies, guidelines, and security features looking for groups that were inclusive, safe, helpful, and respectful. During our review, we were unable to join and participate in the groups due to privacy concerns for current support group members. So, we relied on information from advocates who work regularly with survivors of domestic violence.As you consider this list, please keep in mind that there are many local online support groups for domestic violence which we did not review. So, if you don’t find a group in this list that meets your needs, be sure to ask your local shelter or local domestic violence group for suggestions.A Word From VerywellIf you’re considering joining an online support group for domestic violence, be sure that you read through their guidelines and policies. You also want to be sure you are joining a group that feels secure both electronically and personally. If the group is public or doesn’t commit to keeping your information private, it may not be the best group for you.While online support groups help people process all types of abuse, including everything fromemotional abuseand physical abuse toverbal abuseandfinancial abuse, these groups are not meant to replace the need for therapy or counseling from a qualified mental health professional.Additionally, you may have to try a couple of online support groups before you find one that is right for you. As a result, even though we make recommendations for support groups, only you can decide which one is right for you. If you’re having trouble finding a group that feels like a good fit, talk to your counselor or call your local shelter for suggestions.iStockphotoArticle SourcesVerywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.RAINN.Effects of sexual violence.

iStockphoto

woman crying while on laptop

Whether you’re healing from domestic violence or looking for a path to safety and out of an abusive relationship, support groups can help you move forward in your quest to heal from the abuse. Support groups provide a safe, confidential environment for sharing experiences and feelings, learning coping techniques, and other skills to practice self-care. Support groups also allow you to connect with others in a similar situation, which can help with the feelings of loneliness and isolation. These programs are free of charge and many hotlines are available for support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Compare The Best Domestic Violence Support Groups

CompanyMembership feeStructureNational Domestic Violence HotlineBest Starting PointFreePhone, text, live chat, resourcesHope RecoveryBest Online OptionsFreeIn-person, online (Zoom), classesFort RefugeBest for Ongoing SupportFreeOnline forums and chatrooms, resources and videosDomesticShelters.org Victims and Survivors CommunityBest Social Media GroupFreeSocial media platformLove Is Respectsis interventionBest for TeensFreePhone, text, live chat, resourcesFAQsWho Should Attend a Support Group?Online support groups are not meant to replace counseling or therapy. In fact, while most mental health professionals would advise that attending support group can be a beneficial part of your healing and havepositive effects on interpersonal well-being, it’s important to remember that the groups are not designed to address mental health issues. They are, however, a great place to share what you’re learning or experiencing with people who have gone through the same things you have gone through.Your family members and loved ones may also benefit from support groups. The United States Department of Justice stated that domestic violence has a significant impactnot only on those abused, but also on family members, friends, and on the people within the social networks of both the abuser and the victim.What Are the Benefits of a Support Group?If you are a survivor of domestic violence, it helps to have someone to talk to—especially if you don’t have friends and family members you can turn to. Identifying with others in a similar situation can help reduce the adverse effects ofstigma. Research has also shown that support groups can help improvesymptoms of depressionas they can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and enhance your coping skills.Plus, what’s nice about online support groups is that some of them offer 24-hour chat options. So, on those nights when you can’t sleep or you seem to be ruminating about what happened in your life, it’s nice to have a safe place to sort out your feelings with others who have been through the same thing.Another added benefit of online support groups is that they offer you a completely anonymous option to be transparent about your struggles. And yet, even though you may not be sharing your real name, it’s possible to bond with and develop friendships with the other people in your group.Likewise, being active in a support group is often a complementary component to your overall healing plan. Plus, online support groups can provide you with access to additional resources and information.How Do I Stay Safe in an Online Support Group?When selecting an online support group for domestic violence, it’s important to consider your safety. Even if you are no longer with the person who abused you, there is a chance that they could still be monitoring or stalking you in some way.For this reason, you want to select an online support group that is secure and private. It’s best to avoid public forums and social media groups where anyone can see what is being posted. Likewise, you should not use your real name or a nickname that could allow people to identify who you are.Another way to stay safe is to make sure that you are using a secure computer, clearing your history after you visit an online support group, and not giving out personal information like your address, telephone number, or email address. And, if you’re using a social media support group, you need to refrain from sending people in the group private messages or allowing them to message you. Many times, these messages will pop up on a phone, tablet, or computer as a notification and could put you or someone else at risk.How We Chose the Domestic Violence Support GroupsWhen reviewing online support groups, chat rooms, and forums, we reviewed the largest and most well-known online support groups in the United States. We looked at the services they provide as well the resources available to their participants.Additionally, we reviewed their policies, guidelines, and security features looking for groups that were inclusive, safe, helpful, and respectful. During our review, we were unable to join and participate in the groups due to privacy concerns for current support group members. So, we relied on information from advocates who work regularly with survivors of domestic violence.As you consider this list, please keep in mind that there are many local online support groups for domestic violence which we did not review. So, if you don’t find a group in this list that meets your needs, be sure to ask your local shelter or local domestic violence group for suggestions.A Word From VerywellIf you’re considering joining an online support group for domestic violence, be sure that you read through their guidelines and policies. You also want to be sure you are joining a group that feels secure both electronically and personally. If the group is public or doesn’t commit to keeping your information private, it may not be the best group for you.While online support groups help people process all types of abuse, including everything fromemotional abuseand physical abuse toverbal abuseandfinancial abuse, these groups are not meant to replace the need for therapy or counseling from a qualified mental health professional.Additionally, you may have to try a couple of online support groups before you find one that is right for you. As a result, even though we make recommendations for support groups, only you can decide which one is right for you. If you’re having trouble finding a group that feels like a good fit, talk to your counselor or call your local shelter for suggestions.

Who Should Attend a Support Group?Online support groups are not meant to replace counseling or therapy. In fact, while most mental health professionals would advise that attending support group can be a beneficial part of your healing and havepositive effects on interpersonal well-being, it’s important to remember that the groups are not designed to address mental health issues. They are, however, a great place to share what you’re learning or experiencing with people who have gone through the same things you have gone through.Your family members and loved ones may also benefit from support groups. The United States Department of Justice stated that domestic violence has a significant impactnot only on those abused, but also on family members, friends, and on the people within the social networks of both the abuser and the victim.

Who Should Attend a Support Group?

Online support groups are not meant to replace counseling or therapy. In fact, while most mental health professionals would advise that attending support group can be a beneficial part of your healing and havepositive effects on interpersonal well-being, it’s important to remember that the groups are not designed to address mental health issues. They are, however, a great place to share what you’re learning or experiencing with people who have gone through the same things you have gone through.Your family members and loved ones may also benefit from support groups. The United States Department of Justice stated that domestic violence has a significant impactnot only on those abused, but also on family members, friends, and on the people within the social networks of both the abuser and the victim.

Your family members and loved ones may also benefit from support groups. The United States Department of Justice stated that domestic violence has a significant impactnot only on those abused, but also on family members, friends, and on the people within the social networks of both the abuser and the victim.

What Are the Benefits of a Support Group?If you are a survivor of domestic violence, it helps to have someone to talk to—especially if you don’t have friends and family members you can turn to. Identifying with others in a similar situation can help reduce the adverse effects ofstigma. Research has also shown that support groups can help improvesymptoms of depressionas they can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and enhance your coping skills.Plus, what’s nice about online support groups is that some of them offer 24-hour chat options. So, on those nights when you can’t sleep or you seem to be ruminating about what happened in your life, it’s nice to have a safe place to sort out your feelings with others who have been through the same thing.Another added benefit of online support groups is that they offer you a completely anonymous option to be transparent about your struggles. And yet, even though you may not be sharing your real name, it’s possible to bond with and develop friendships with the other people in your group.Likewise, being active in a support group is often a complementary component to your overall healing plan. Plus, online support groups can provide you with access to additional resources and information.

What Are the Benefits of a Support Group?

If you are a survivor of domestic violence, it helps to have someone to talk to—especially if you don’t have friends and family members you can turn to. Identifying with others in a similar situation can help reduce the adverse effects ofstigma. Research has also shown that support groups can help improvesymptoms of depressionas they can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and enhance your coping skills.Plus, what’s nice about online support groups is that some of them offer 24-hour chat options. So, on those nights when you can’t sleep or you seem to be ruminating about what happened in your life, it’s nice to have a safe place to sort out your feelings with others who have been through the same thing.Another added benefit of online support groups is that they offer you a completely anonymous option to be transparent about your struggles. And yet, even though you may not be sharing your real name, it’s possible to bond with and develop friendships with the other people in your group.Likewise, being active in a support group is often a complementary component to your overall healing plan. Plus, online support groups can provide you with access to additional resources and information.

Plus, what’s nice about online support groups is that some of them offer 24-hour chat options. So, on those nights when you can’t sleep or you seem to be ruminating about what happened in your life, it’s nice to have a safe place to sort out your feelings with others who have been through the same thing.

Another added benefit of online support groups is that they offer you a completely anonymous option to be transparent about your struggles. And yet, even though you may not be sharing your real name, it’s possible to bond with and develop friendships with the other people in your group.

Likewise, being active in a support group is often a complementary component to your overall healing plan. Plus, online support groups can provide you with access to additional resources and information.

How Do I Stay Safe in an Online Support Group?When selecting an online support group for domestic violence, it’s important to consider your safety. Even if you are no longer with the person who abused you, there is a chance that they could still be monitoring or stalking you in some way.For this reason, you want to select an online support group that is secure and private. It’s best to avoid public forums and social media groups where anyone can see what is being posted. Likewise, you should not use your real name or a nickname that could allow people to identify who you are.Another way to stay safe is to make sure that you are using a secure computer, clearing your history after you visit an online support group, and not giving out personal information like your address, telephone number, or email address. And, if you’re using a social media support group, you need to refrain from sending people in the group private messages or allowing them to message you. Many times, these messages will pop up on a phone, tablet, or computer as a notification and could put you or someone else at risk.

How Do I Stay Safe in an Online Support Group?

When selecting an online support group for domestic violence, it’s important to consider your safety. Even if you are no longer with the person who abused you, there is a chance that they could still be monitoring or stalking you in some way.For this reason, you want to select an online support group that is secure and private. It’s best to avoid public forums and social media groups where anyone can see what is being posted. Likewise, you should not use your real name or a nickname that could allow people to identify who you are.Another way to stay safe is to make sure that you are using a secure computer, clearing your history after you visit an online support group, and not giving out personal information like your address, telephone number, or email address. And, if you’re using a social media support group, you need to refrain from sending people in the group private messages or allowing them to message you. Many times, these messages will pop up on a phone, tablet, or computer as a notification and could put you or someone else at risk.

For this reason, you want to select an online support group that is secure and private. It’s best to avoid public forums and social media groups where anyone can see what is being posted. Likewise, you should not use your real name or a nickname that could allow people to identify who you are.

Another way to stay safe is to make sure that you are using a secure computer, clearing your history after you visit an online support group, and not giving out personal information like your address, telephone number, or email address. And, if you’re using a social media support group, you need to refrain from sending people in the group private messages or allowing them to message you. Many times, these messages will pop up on a phone, tablet, or computer as a notification and could put you or someone else at risk.

How We Chose the Domestic Violence Support Groups

When reviewing online support groups, chat rooms, and forums, we reviewed the largest and most well-known online support groups in the United States. We looked at the services they provide as well the resources available to their participants.

Additionally, we reviewed their policies, guidelines, and security features looking for groups that were inclusive, safe, helpful, and respectful. During our review, we were unable to join and participate in the groups due to privacy concerns for current support group members. So, we relied on information from advocates who work regularly with survivors of domestic violence.

As you consider this list, please keep in mind that there are many local online support groups for domestic violence which we did not review. So, if you don’t find a group in this list that meets your needs, be sure to ask your local shelter or local domestic violence group for suggestions.

A Word From Verywell

If you’re considering joining an online support group for domestic violence, be sure that you read through their guidelines and policies. You also want to be sure you are joining a group that feels secure both electronically and personally. If the group is public or doesn’t commit to keeping your information private, it may not be the best group for you.

While online support groups help people process all types of abuse, including everything fromemotional abuseand physical abuse toverbal abuseandfinancial abuse, these groups are not meant to replace the need for therapy or counseling from a qualified mental health professional.

Additionally, you may have to try a couple of online support groups before you find one that is right for you. As a result, even though we make recommendations for support groups, only you can decide which one is right for you. If you’re having trouble finding a group that feels like a good fit, talk to your counselor or call your local shelter for suggestions.

Article SourcesVerywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.RAINN.Effects of sexual violence.

Article Sources

Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.RAINN.Effects of sexual violence.

RAINN.Effects of sexual violence.

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Best Starting Point:National Domestic Violence Hotline#

Best Online Options:Hope Recovery#

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