She notes that it is difficult to leave a violent relationship because of anxiety and fear about the future. Issues in the abused wife's mind include how to support herself and her children and the risk of homelessness. This fear of insecurity and deprivation can keep a woman in an abusive relationship. These fears are fueled by the low self-esteem engendered by the abuse. The abuse victim has little confidence that she has the power and the ability to care for herself and the children. The author received help from the organization called Justice, Economic Dignity, and Independence (JEDI) for Women in Salt Lake City, Utah. JEDI for Women assists in finding affordable housing for women and is involved in promoting issues of social justice, welfare reform, and women's empowerment. The welfare system acted as a crucial social safety net for the author and her children until she could become self-reliant, and JEDI for Women served as a support group and provided expert guidance to help her make decisions about her future.