4 Ways We Can Raise Awareness and Join the Fight Against Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) evolved from the “Day of Unity” in October 1981 observed by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The intent was to connect advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and their children.
The Day of Unity soon became an entire week devoted to a range of activities conducted at the local, state, and national levels. Then, in October 1987, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed.
Understanding Domestic Violence: What is it?
Domestic violence is not strictly physical violence alone. It can be verbal and emotional, too. Domestic violence is described as any behavior of which the purpose is to gain control and/or power over a partner, girl/boyfriend, spouse, or intimate family member.
Abuse is a learned behavior and is not caused by common excuses such as anger, mental problems, drugs or alcohol, though these can certainly contribute or exasperate abusive behaviors.
Speak up and speak out against abuse: How to protect yourself and loved ones from domestic harm.
Did you know? According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, on average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. During one year, this equates to more than 10 million women and men.
Did you know? According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, on average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. During one year, this equates to more than 10 million women and men.
1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe intimate partner physical violence, intimate partner contact sexual violence, and/or intimate partner stalking with impacts such as injury, fearfulness, post-traumatic stress disorder, use of victim services, contraction of sexually transmitted diseases, etc.
- Controlling types of behaviors from partners
- Undue stress and restrictions surrounding finances
- Limitations on time spent with family and friends
Intervention can sometimes be tricky because, ultimately, victims need to want to leave or get help for themselves. However, having supportive family members and friends who know the signs can assist victims in seeking and accepting their help.
Share about your experience with a trusted community, family member, or friend.
Healing from domestic violence is possible, and there are resources available for victims in need. If you are a victim of domestic violence, share your experience with a trusted community, family member, or friend to increase your likelihood of getting the help and resources you need.
If you are a friend or loved one of a victim, sometimes it may be difficult for them to open up about their situation. This is why, if you are being confided to, being a great listener and offering help and resources where appropriate can vastly increase the victim's chances to change their situation. If possible, help the victim make a safe escape plan and make sure they have access to resources.
Photo by Joel Muniz on Unsplash
Locate organizations, support groups, or therapy providers that support victims and join the fight to end domestic violence.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline website provides a directory of local resources to assist domestic abuse victims. Consider donating clothes, hygienic items, food, time, and money to organizations that support domestic violence victims and their families.
According to the Resource Center on Domestic Violence: Child Protection and Custody, researchers have estimated that between 3.3 million and 10 million children are exposed to adult domestic violence each year. Protecting children from this exposure improves their immediate surroundings and protects their mental health as they mature into adulthood by improving their chances for healing and growing in a safe environment.
The fight to end domestic violence is still ongoing, but there are many organizations that support victims with resources and provide access to safe housing for those affected most. Please visit The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence or the National Domestic Violence Hotline websites for more information about domestic violence and how you can support the fight to end it.
You can also contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-SAFE (7233).
