Build your courage to get what you need
Many people need a restraining order, but just can't quite get around to
visiting a Domestic Violence Prevention agency to get one. It's usually a
problem of fear, or shyness, or a complex combination of emotions -- none of
them good, and none of them deserved. This is a shame, because restraining
orders can be very useful tools if used properly. And working with an Advocate
at the agency is a very positive step. Suddenly, you will find that you have
smart and powerful friends backing you up.

If going to a Domestic Violence Prevention agency is just too much for you to
face, sometimes it helps to break it down into smaller steps. For example, on
the way to grocery shopping, drive past the agency. Now you know how to get
there. Drive through the parking lot and note where you would park. Notice where
the main door is. Usually the agency is in a building that rents offices. Notice
what other businesses are in the building -- shoe repair, insurance, whatever --
and maybe do some business with one of them. The result: you are comfortable
driving there, parking, and going inside.

Another procedure is to start calling the agency's Crisis line whenever it is
safe to do so. Almost all of the agencies staff a 24-hour Crisis line, so call
it and talk to the trained Advocate on the other end. Feel free to be perfectly
honest. Tell them that you are working on building confidence in talking to
Advocates, so that eventually you will be able to go into the agency office. The
Advocate on the phone will understand completely, and will be willing to answer
questions, or describe the process, or just chat about other things to help
build your confidence level.

If you break the process down to these smaller steps, you will finally be able
to go into the Domestic Violence Prevention agency, and get the help and support
you need and deserve.

From the site: http://incestabuse.about.com/

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