October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to recognize the impact of abuse, educate ourselves, and support survivors. Domestic violence affects millions of people worldwide and takes many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse. Understanding these dynamics is the first step toward creating safer communities.

What Is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is not just physical harm. It can include:

• Emotional abuse: Verbal insults, threats, manipulation, or controlling behavior.

• Financial abuse: Restricting access to money, employment, or resources.

• Sexual abuse: Coercion, assault, or non-consensual sexual activity.

• Isolation: Cutting off access to friends, family, or social support.

Abuse is about power and control, and it can happen in any relationship, regardless of gender, age, race, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status.

Why Awareness Matters

Domestic violence often goes unreported due to fear, shame, or stigma. Raising awareness:

• Encourages survivors to seek help.

• Educates the public on recognizing warning signs.

• Supports the development of resources and policies that protect victims.

How to Support Survivors

If someone discloses abuse:

• Listen and believe them. Validating their experience is crucial.

• Offer resources, not judgment or pressure. Let them make decisions at their own pace.

• Check in regularly. Ongoing support matters more than one-time help.

Resources:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
Text “START” to 88788

Taking Action

Everyone can contribute to ending domestic violence:

• Speak out against abusive behaviors and harmful norms.

• Educate yourself and others about healthy relationships.

• Volunteer, donate, or advocate for local organizations serving survivors.

Domestic violence is preventable, but it requires awareness, compassion, and collective action. This month, and every month, we stand with survivors and work toward a world where everyone can feel safe, respected, and empowered in their relationships.