Domestic Violence: The Leading Cause of Injury to Women – Did you know that domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women? It happens more than car accidents and muggings! October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month and we’re sharing the tips on how you can watch out for the signs of domestic violence–or reach out for help if you’re being abused. Learn more right here on Newsymom!
This is Public Health is brought to you in partnership with the Tuscarawas County Health Department.
October is almost here, and so is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month! Domestic violence can be a hard thing to detect, as some people hide what they’re going through when they feel alone. The kicker is this: most of these abusers are doing so to their intimate partner.
In fact, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have been physically abused by their significant other in the United States in some form. What’s even worse is that studies suggest that ten million children witness some form of domestic violence annually!
Domestic Violence Stats
Domestic violence affects all of us. The people we know, love, and interact with could be affected, or even you could be a victim!
Take a look at some of these stats here in the U.S.:
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- 464 gun-related domestic violence fatalities this year
- 10 million people abused each year by their intimate partner
- 20,000 calls placed to domestic violence hotlines each day
- 20% of women have been raped in the United States
(National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, ncadv.org)
Be Aware of the Signs of an Abuser
It can be tough to tell if someone is abusive, but keep an eye and ear out for these common red flags:
- Extreme jealousy, possessiveness, or controlling behavior (especially when it comes to finances, clothing choices, where their victim goes, who their victim sees, etc.)
- Bad temper
- Encourages their victim’s isolation from friends, family members, etc. (cuts off their support system)
- Sabotages opportunities in school or work for their partner (forcing their victim’s dependence on them)
- Forces sexual acts/rapes their victim
- Demeaning or embarrassing their victim (privately or publicly)
- Antiquated beliefs about roles of women and men in relationships
- Harassing their victim at work
It can be really tough to point out an abuser. Sometimes, the abuser goes through periods of being charming and sweet to their victim in between incidents of violence. However, don’t be fooled.
This power and control wheel shows exactly how abusers operate to get their victim to stay:
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY). It’s open 24/7 and 100% confidential. When a phone call isn’t an option, don’t hesitate to utilize these resources:
Resources for Domestic Violence Awareness
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National Domestic Violence Hotline (Live Chat or Text “START” to 88788)
- Signs of Abuse
- Why Do Victims Stay?
- Dynamics of Abuse
- Personalized Safety Plan
- Financial Education (After Domestic Violence)
- More Resources
The Tuscarawas County Health Department wants to make sure you are safe and sound. You are worthy of a safe, beautiful life with a deserving partner (if you so choose to have one). Keep following on Facebook (@tchdnow) for the latest news and safety tips to protect yourself all year long!
Melissa Klatt
Reporting