Male Survivors

Black man with medium length curly hair and short beard with gold chain and redish button down shirt stands in doorway

If you are a man experiencing abuse, you are not alone. Men can be survivors of domestic violence too. About 1 in 3 men will experience sexual violence, physical violence, and or stalking by an intimate partner within their lifetime.

We know how difficult it can be to find support as a man experiencing abuse in an intimate relationship. We hear from men that:

  • There are few community resources for male survivors of domestic violence.
  • Family members or friends have told them to “suck it up” because they’re a man.
  • They’re not believed when they talk about the abuse they’ve experienced with family, friends, or law enforcement.

Why men stay in abusive relationships

There are many reasons why survivors stay in abusive relationships. Men, in particular, may stay because:

  • Many men don’t realize signs of abuse.
  • They don’t want to be seen as weak or less of a man.
  • There is a lack of resources, especially shelter and housing options, for men with children.
  • They worry about losing custody of their children.

Getting help

LifeWire is here to help all men experiencing domestic violence – whether you’re gay, straight, or transgender. At LifeWire, male and non-binary survivors can access the same services as everyone else, including emergency shelter, housing services, support groups, one-on-one mental health therapy, and legal advocacy.

If you have questions or need support, call our 24-Hour Helpline at 425-746-1940.