The crisis-line would provide a central point of contact for men who are making a move towards taking responsibility for their violent or abusive behaviour, but do not know where to go for help.

"It's come out of discussions that men often go to their buddies in their down-time," says Theodon Robertson, executive director of the society. But it's been observed that if a man is already upset, going to his friends can sometimes exacerbate an already difficult situation, rather than control it, she says.

"The idea is to have someone to call when you know things are getting out of hand, to make that call to a counselor and get engaged in prevention," says Theodon. "[The crisis-line] is very prevention-focused."

Some may believe that violent men will not seek help, even it is available. However, experience, at least in some areas, has proved this wrong. In Victoria, BC, four years ago, just six advertisements placed in the local newspaper resulted in 500 calling for help.

Send this page to a friend

Articles may be reprinted with permission. Contact us at peaceful@newsroom5.com or 1-800-294-0051