October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. Domestic Violence is found in every community and affects people regardless of age, socio-economic status, gender, race, religion, or nationality.
According to thehotline.org, “On average, more than 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men in the US will experience rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner.”
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Domestic Violence is a pattern of behaviors that are used by one partner to maintain power over another person in a relationship. These patterns are continually oppressive behaviors and exercise coercive control over another person. Oppressive behavior is not provoked but accomplishes something for the abuser. It is important to know that abuse is more than just physical violence but shows itself in various ways of manipulation to coerce a person to operate or behave in a certain way.
Abuse can also often happen in a subtle or gradual way, making it easy to become entangled in an unhealthy relationship. That is why it is important to recognize the signs of an abusive relationship. The more informed we are about domestic abuse the more prepared we can be to help ourselves and others.
SIGNS OF AN UNHEALTHY RELATIONSHIP VS. HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP
UNHEALTHY RELATIONSHIP | HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP |
Intensity | Comfortable Pace |
Possessiveness | Trust |
Manipulation | Honesty |
Isolation | Independence |
Sabotage | Respect |
Belittling | Equality |
Guilting | Kindness |
Volatility | Taking Responsibility |
Deflecting Responsibility | Healthy Conflict |
Betrayal | Fun |
HOW TO GET HELP
If you find yourself in a situation of domestic violence or someone you know is in this situation getting help can be scary. The feelings of being trapped, alone, scared, and shamed are legitimate and real; these feelings and realities can easily immobilize you. Hear the truth that you are valuable, that you have purpose, that you are loved, and that you have hope and options for help. If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation, get help. It will be scary and hard but you can do hard things. Know there is hope!
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Resources to gain more understanding on abuse and advocates to speak with in a safe space. https://www.thehotline.org/ or text START to 88788
Local Sioux City Resources
SafePlace - 1723 Grandview Boulevard | 1-800-982-7233
Haven House - 117 E 28th Street, South Sioux City | 402-494-7592
Sources:
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