Believe the person telling you they are being abused. Let them know that you are available to help whenever they may need it. What they need most is someone who will believe and listen. 

Reassure them that they are not alone and that there is help and support out there.

Be a trusted confidant. Keep all information entrusted to you confidential (exception: contacting an organization or law enforcement). 

Don't try to fix the problem or become a counselor. Your local domestic violence agency is staffed with trained personnel to counsel victims and help to ensure their safety. Don't put yourself in harm's way or increase the danger for the victim by getting in the middle. 

Acknowledge and validate that they are in a very difficult and scary situation. Their abuser may have them convinced that they are at fault or don't deserve better treatment. Let them know that the abuse is not their fault. If she is blaming herself, try to reframe: “I don’t care if you did prepare a meal late or forgot to fill the car with gas, that is no reason for him to be violent with you. This is his problem.” 

Gently guide the victim to find help. Urge the victim to seek consultation about a safety plan. 

Remember that you cannot “rescue” them. Although it is difficult to see someone you care about get hurt ultimately, they are the one who has to make the decisions about what they want to do. It’s important for you to support them no matter what they decide and help them find a way to safety and peace. 

Be Non Judgmental  and respect their decisions. There are many reasons why victims stay in abusive relationships. They may leave and return to the relationship many times. Do not criticize their decisions or try to guilt them. 

Remember that it takes an average of seven attempts for a survivor to leave a domestic violence relationship. Supporting a survivor to achieve safety and healing can be a long-term effort 

Don’t give up hope. Be patient and go at the survivor’s pace, not yours.