Domestic Violence Awareness Month was launched nationwide in October 1987 as a way to connect and unite individuals and organizations working on domestic violence issues while raising awareness for those issues. Over the past 30+ years, much progress has been made to support domestic violence victims and survivors, to hold abusers accountable and to create and update legislation to further those goals.
Still, today, domestic violence is an underrated crime as it mostly happens behind closed doors.
So, What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic Violence (DV) is a pattern of one person trying to dominate or control another person. This involves different types of abusive ways. It is a repetitive process of abuse where the perpetrator gets hold of the victim in a consistent manner. DV comes in different forms and ways - at home and in the workplace.
The primary domestic abuse categories are:
• Physical Abuse: Pushing, kicking, strangling, or any other physical violence
• Sexual Abuse: forceful sex, sexual assaults, sexual threats, and many others
• Emotional Abuse: Threats, manipulation, lies, stalking, name-calling, and several more
• Economic Abuse: Denying access to bank accounts and other financial platforms
Those who are surviving violence in their relationships and families may be experiencing increased isolation and danger caused by social distancing measures during the coronavirus public health emergency. Survivors often have specific needs around safety, health, and confidentiality.
You are not alone.
• The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 24/7, confidential and free at 800-799-7233
• The National Sexual Assault Hotline is 24/7, confidential and free at 800-656-HOPE (4673)
• LoveisRespect.org for 24/7 teen dating violence support by texting “loveis” to 866-331-9474, or call 866-331-9474
In an emergency, call or text 9-1-1.
