Find Help and Healing

Abuse can take many forms, and its impact on mental and emotional well-being can be profound. Whether it’s physical, emotional, financial, sexual, or neglect, no one should have to face abuse alone. If you are in immediate danger, please call 911 or reach out to a trusted emergency support service.

What is Abuse?

Abuse occurs when one person intentionally harms or manipulates another, and exerts power or control over a vulnerable individual. Abuse can happen in any type of relationship – familial, romantic, workplace, or social. It can take many forms, including:
  • Physical Abuse – Any intentional or reckless use of physical force that causes harm, intimidation, or fear. This includes hitting, pushing, slapping, or restraining someone against their will.
  • Emotional Abuse – A pattern of behavior designed to manipulate, intimidate, or control someone. This includes name-calling, threats, humiliation, gaslighting, or isolating someone from friends and family.
  • Financial Abuse – When someone takes control of another person’s financial resources, preventing them from being financially independent. This can include withholding money, forcing financial dependence, or coercing someone into financial decisions.
  • Sexual Abuse – Any non-consensual sexual act, including coercion, assault, or exploitation.
  • Neglect – Failing to provide necessary care, such as food, shelter, medical attention, or emotional support, leading to harm or distress.
If you’re experiencing abuse, you might struggle to define your situation or feel hesitant to seek help. But what you are experiencing is real, and support is available.

Abuse in the U.S.: A Growing Concern

Abuse affects millions of people in the United States each year. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline:
  • Nearly 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men experience intimate partner violence at some point in their lives.
  • 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men have experienced sexual violence in their lifetime.
  • Over 600,000 children in the U.S. are victims of neglect or abuse annually.
These statistics highlight the urgent need for support, education, and resources to help survivors break free and rebuild their lives.

Where to Get Help in Santa Barbara

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, local resources are available to provide confidential support, counseling, and emergency assistance:

• Santa Barbara Domestic Violence Solutions (DVS)
DVS offers emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and support groups for survivors of domestic abuse. They provide safe housing and crisis intervention to help individuals escape dangerous situations.

📞 24/7 Crisis Hotline: (805) 964-5245
world icon Website: dvsolutions.org

• Santa Barbara Rape Crisis Center (STESA – Standing Together to End Sexual Assault)
STESA provides free, confidential crisis counseling, medical advocacy, and legal support for survivors of sexual assault. They also offer support groups and therapy services.

📞 24/7 Hotline: (805) 564-3696
world icon Website: sbstesa.org

• Santa Barbara County Child Welfare Services
If you suspect child abuse or neglect, you can report it to Child Welfare Services for immediate intervention.

📞 Child Abuse Hotline: (800) 367-0166

• Santa Barbara County Behavioral Wellness
This department provides mental health services, therapy, and crisis intervention for individuals experiencing trauma, abuse, and other mental health challenges.

📞 24/7 Crisis Line: (888) 868-1649
world icon Website: countyofsb.org

• Victim-Witness Assistance Program (Santa Barbara District Attorney’s Office)
Provides legal advocacy, emergency assistance, and financial support for victims of crime, including domestic and sexual abuse.

📞 Dial: 2-1-1 (Available 24/7)
world iconWebsite: 211santabarbaracounty.org

How to Help Someone Experiencing Abuse

Supporting a friend or loved one who is experiencing abuse can be challenging, but your presence and compassion can make a difference. Here’s how you can help:
  • Listen Without Judgment – Allow them to share their story at their own pace. Avoid pressuring them or offering unsolicited advice.
  • Offer Support and Encouragement – Let them know they are not alone and that professional help is available.
  • Respect Their Decisions – Leaving an abusive situation is complicated and often dangerous. Support their choices while providing them with resources.
  • Help Them Find Professional Support – Encourage them to reach out to Santa Barbara’s domestic violence hotlines, crisis centers, or mental health professionals.
You Are Not Alone – Mental Wellness Center is Here to Help
Abuse is never your fault, and you deserve support, safety, and healing. If you need immediate assistance, please contact one of the Santa Barbara resources above.

You are not alone – help is available.