Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) is held every month of October and aims to spread awareness about abuse cycles, its’ warning signs and resources available to those who may need them.
According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior that is used to hold power and control over someone. This type of abuse includes, but is not limited to verbal, emotional, mental, physical, sexual and financial.
Domestic violence is not a one-size-fits-all issue. Every case is different, and some are overlooked because they can be disguised as love and affection for a person.
“One big warning sign of abuse is when a person drastically changes their social patterns,” said Luis Salas, Associate Director of Community Relations at the Center Against Sexual and Family Violence.
This is known as isolation, and it is a common control tactic used to isolate a victim from their friends and family. The intentions behind this may be minimized with justifications such as “It is because I love and care about you” or “You spend too much time with them instead of with me.”
These phrases can cloud a victim’s judgment to realize they may actually be rooted in control and/or extreme jealousy.
When victims find themselves in an abusive household or relationship, they may encounter feelings of shame, embarrassment and guilt. However, these feelings are normal and resourceful centers urge them to seek help when they feel ready.
Salas shared the CASFV saw a 60 percent increase in domestic violence hotline calls from last year. There has also been a 26 percent increase in families seeking shelter.
This is a sign that the center’s resources are being utilized by community members. It should also serve as a call for everyone to practice awareness because contrary to common misconceptions, it can happen to anyone, even a friend, neighbor or family member.
This year’s theme at CASFV is “Be Kind, Rewind to a Healthy Start” which aims to create positive change and break abuse cycles.
You can reach CAFVS’s 24-hour hotline at (915) 593-7300.
Josie Avila is the audience and engagement editor and can be reached at [email protected]; Joseline Avila on LinkedIn.
