October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. In the US 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experience domestic violence. Indiana’s numbers are slightly worse than the national average. You can read all about them here: ncadv_indiana_fact_sheet_2020
While these numbers may seem shocking to you, the reality is they are not new. In the past the threshold for what was considered unacceptable was simply worse, ignoring the damage caused by violence. Think carefully about what this means. You not only know someone who is a victim of domestic violence, you know lots of people who are. You also know many more who grew up in homes where domestic violence was at least once something that happened.
During the COVID Lockdown abusers and their victims were forced to spend a lot more time together. Domestic violence, much like sexual assault, is a hidden horror in our country.
What should you do about it?
If you are experiencing domestic violence or have in the past, reach out. Reach out to a friend, a coworker, a stranger, or me. Here are some numbers you can call and web sites where you can get more information:
The National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-7233 (SAFE)
www.ndvh.org
National Dating Abuse Helpline
1-866-331-9474
www.loveisrespect.org
National Child Abuse Hotline/Childhelp
1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)
www.childhelp.org
National Sexual Assault Hotline
1-800-656-4673 (HOPE)
www.rainn.org
Remember that anyone can be an abuser and anyone a victim. Go here to learn signs of domestic violence.
If you do encounter someone who is experiencing domestic violence follow these guide lines to help them.
It is happening around you. Look, listen, and care.