Susquehanna’s VIP (Violence Intervention and Prevention) Center recently sent an email reminding students that October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Whether we realize it or not, things like domestic violence take place every day, to people of all genders. Sadly, not every case is as easy as the next to deal with and some people don’t always make it out of those relationships unharmed.
According to a study done by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, nearly 20 people per minute experience some type of abuse by an intimate partner. Over the course of a year that equates to nearly 10 million people.
The same site states that in one day, more than 20,000 phone calls are placed to domestic violence hotlines nationwide. As scary as these statistics and situations sound, there are even bigger factors that occur following those who are able to escape their abuser.
Those who have experienced domestic violence are subject to long-lasting mental health issues. Those typically include PTSD, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and suicidal thoughts.
Though we may not be able to stop domestic violence from happening, we can surely play a part in helping to see the signs and aid others who are in need of help. Some common signals of domestic abuse include but are not limited to the abuser: being jealous of you not spending time with them, shaming you, controlling finances, making you feel guilty for all issues in the relationship, damaging your property, pressuring you into sexual acts, and intimidating you with weapons or threats.
Domestic violence is not a subject that is to be toyed around with or made light of. If you or someone you know is experiencing some of those red flags please do not hesitate to call the hotline. The number is 1-800-799-7233, it is completely free and 100% confidential. Whether you’re calling to report someone else or yourself, make sure you are able to do so in a safe and trusted place.
You are all strong and have the ability to make it to tomorrow, so keep pushing, you’ve got this.