Did you know that October is domestic violence awareness month? This month was first set forth in 1989. It is dedicated to acknowledging its survivors and being a voice for its victims. As a survivor of domestic violence, it is something that I want to help educate everyone on this month.
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic Violence is a pattern of abusive behavior against an intimate partner to maintain power and control over them. This type of behavior could include a variety of things:
- Physical Abuse
- Sexual Assault & Rape
- Emotional Abuse
- Narcissistic Abuse
- Economic Abuse
All of these types of abuse though, are for a common goal. They are meant to intimidate, entrap, coerce, and manipulate the abuser’s partner. This gives them immense power within the dynamic.
Who is Affected?
Domestic Violence is not something that is limited to a specific gender, sexual orientation, income class, or race. We see it happening in all communities. In fact abusive behavior such as this happens to at least 10 million people in the United States annually. And this is only reported cases, we know that many cases of domestic abuse also go unreported for lots of reasons. It is important to remember:
- This does not just happen to those who are women. This also affects men, transgender, and non-binary individuals as well.
- This is not limited to low income families. We see abuse like this happen in middle class and wealthy families too.
- It can be happening in the homes that appear on the outside to be the happiest and most loving.
- The person being abused in this dynamic is not the only one affected. If a couple has children, they are greatly impacted by witnessing domestic violence or being a subject to the abuse themselves.
Why is Awareness Important?
It is critical to spread awareness about domestic violence for many reasons.
- To help others know that they are in a bad situation. I remember that I had a lot of misconceptions and didn’t know I was in that dynamic until talking to the Center for Women and Families.
- To help families and friends understand where a survivor or victim is coming from. It can be hard to get where they are coming from or the behaviors they have until you understand the why.
- For the public to be more aware of the dynamic to support those who are ready to get out of the relationship.
- To provide more resources to allow people to get out and stay out of the relationship.
If You Are Facing Domestic Violence
If you are facing domestic violence it can be challenging to get out for a lot of reasons. You may not know you are being abused. Your partner may have taken all your resources. You may be cut off from family/friends. The repercussions of attempting to leave may feel too high/scary. These are all tremendously valid reasons and feelings. I’m just here to remind you that you are not alone. That you are not crazy. You deserve better than to be living this way. And if you do want resources:
- You can call 800-799-7233 from a secure line
- You can text START to 88788 from a private phone
- In Kentucky/Indiana you can reach out to the Center for Women and Families at- 1-844-237-2331
