Many strong men and women from around the world share their stories and raise awareness in October for National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Domestic Violence is becoming more common in many relationships and according to National Day Calendar, “The U.S. Department of Justice estimates that 1.3 million women and 835,000 men are victims of physical violence by a partner every year.” It takes courage, heroism, and strength to come forward, but our community has encouraged them every step of the way. Become apart of the community and take a stand against assault.
Being in this position can be frightening, but know you are never alone and it is okay to ask for support during a time of need. It is important to recognize the signs and how to reach out for help. A few signs are listed below:
- Your partner physically hurts you or threatens you
- Constantly raises their voice at you
- Belittles you in any way
- Manipulative
- Blames you for every altercation
- Sexual abuse
- Invasion of privacy
DO NOT ignore these red flags or excuse these actions. Your mental and physical health comes first. Partners tend to stay even after recognizing the signs for various reasons including being married, being financially dependent on them, has a family with them, fear of leaving, or has become insecure.
In the event that any of these signs are recognized, remember this is not your wrongdoing and you deserve better. If you have an emergency situation please dial 9-11 immediately.
Here is some contact information listed below to furtherly help you:
- The Haven A non-profit organization located in Valdosta that provides 24-hour temporary shelter and services to victims of domestic abuse. Their 24-hour toll-free crisis line is 1-800-33HAVEN. Their local crisis line is 229-244-1765.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233)
- Turn to a friend or loved one for extra support
Leaving an intimate partner can be difficult, especially if they have become dangerous. If you have made the final decision to leave, you will need the support of others to ensure your safety. Try contacting family, friends, spiritual members, co-workers, or any school administration to help you safely remove yourself from the home. There are shelters for partners that have fallen victim to domestic violence including The Haven and Lowndes Associated Ministries to People Inc (LAMP).
The most important thing to remember is that you are not alone. You always have a team of support behind you. Join campaigns and share your story. October is a time where battered women can connect and encourage others that it is okay to speak up and leave.
These are a few of October’s National Domestic Violence Awareness campaigns:
- #VoicesHavePower Break the Cycle partnered with Hopeline Verizon for this awareness campaign. For ever time the hashtag is used, Verizon is donating $3 towards domestic violence prevention.
- #ChangeHappensHere campaign by No More shines light on the message that no matter where you are, you can help change and bring awareness toward domestic violence
- It’s On Us Pledge to ensure the safety of both men and women, discourage all non-consensual sex, and acknowledge that it is sexual assault.
Written By: Kayla Pool
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/mental-domestic-abuse-signs#2-6
https://nationaldaycalendar.com/national-domestic-violence-awareness-month-october/
https://www.valdostahaven.org/
https://www.breakthecycle.org/blog/it%E2%80%99s-national-domestic-violence-awareness-month
https://nomore.org/campaigns/dvam/
