1 in 3 Albertans

1 in 3 Albertans will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. It’s time to get REAL.

REAL Talk is a guide to help us understand and talk openly about domestic abuse in Alberta.

Chances are you are close to or know someone impacted by domestic abuse. Learn to break the cycle of domestic abuse with just a few words.

How to have REAL talk

REAL talk isn’t fancy or complicated, it’s just a moment between two people.

Recognize

Domestic abuse isn’t black and white, there isn’t a clear list of signs to look for. People experience abuse on a spectrum through many different forms of power and control.

Empathize

When someone confides in or shares an experience with you, check in with your gut feeling and believe that person. Your response will affect how that person seeks help again in the future.

Ask

Ask questions that give you a better sense of the situation and how best to support the person experiencing the abuse. You aren’t the expert, try to build a shared understanding.

Listen

Listening means creating space for someone to define their own experience without judgement. Remember it’s not about you.

REAL talk

Domestic abuse is a real issue in Alberta.

REAL Talk Workshops in your Community

We partner with local businesses and groups to ensure all Albertans have access to facts, tools and support networks working to end domestic violence in Alberta.

Download our REAL talk toolkit today, or contact us to book a workshop in your community.

Domestic Abuse in Alberta

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IS AT AN EPIDEMIC LEVEL IN ALBERTA, WHICH MEANS YOU ALREADY KNOW OR ARE CLOSE TO SOMEONE IMPACTED. GET THE FACTS.

1 in 3 Albertans

 1 in 3 Albertans will experience domestic violence in their lifetime.

80%

80% of people who experience domestic violence will tell someone in their social networks first.

One conversation

Studies show that just one positive conversation is likely to lead someone to seek further help.

Download the REAL Talk Guide

Domestic violence is a real problem in Alberta, but it doesn’t take much to break the cycle.

Our REAL Talk toolkit is available for download so you can print at home or share with a friend or colleague.

More

Resources

What is
Domestic Abuse?

Consider the
Trade-offs of leaving

Sagesse Programs & Workshops