Constellation was designed to support women in the first two stages of abuse: recognising the signs and understanding the behaviours. A woman may be experiencing abuse long before she can recognise it, name it or feel able to discuss it with a professional. She may know something is wrong without knowing whether it is abuse. Shame, embarrassment and fear of judgement can make it harder still to speak to someone.^{581, 762, 763}

Research shows that recognition is associated with seeking help. Women who recognised their experiences as abuse were almost twice as likely to talk to police and about twice as likely to see a need for formal support.⁷⁶⁴

Research also shows that some women find it easier to disclose abuse through digital screening than face to face, particularly when they feel shame or fear judgement.⁷⁶⁵

Constellation provides a private starting point. A woman can explore the behaviours she is experiencing, see how they may form part of wider patterns of abuse and begin to understand what those patterns could mean. She can do this independently, without creating an account or giving identifying information, when and where it is safe.

With that understanding, she can begin to explore her options and consider professional support. For your organisation, this creates an opportunity to offer relevant information earlier, build trust and support her when she is ready to engage.