A Silent Killer
“I sometimes view domestic violence as a silent killer,” says Sherry Hatfield, a victim’s advocate with the Tug Valley Recovery Shelter for the past 28 years. “Domestic violence is rarely mentioned unless it is happening to you or a family member. Victims often don’t realize that there is help for them and that is what we at the Tug Valley Recovery Shelter hope Domestic Violence Awareness Month makes them aware of.”
Since 1987, October has served as a month for raising awareness about Domestic Violence. The goals for this awareness month have always been to connect individuals and groups with one another to raise awareness and fight domestic violence.
As Sherry said, it’s not an issue that gets enough airtime. 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men have experienced intimate partner violence, be it physical violence, sexual violence, or stalking. On average, nearly 20 people per minute are the victim of domestic violence, which equals more than 10 million people a year in the United States alone. (Information from ncadv.org)
There is a connection between domestic violence and depression and suicidal tendencies. Domestic violence can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, disability and neurological disorders.
Domestic Violence is a serious issue, but it’s one that we as a community have the power to fight. Shelters and resources like the Tug Valley Recovery Shelter offer resources and shelter to victims in need, and donations of time, necessities, or money are always accepted.
If you’re interested in finding more information about domestic violence awareness, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, a grassroots organization dedicated to fighting domestic violence and raising awareness on behalf of victims, has a website filled with information. Take the time to educate yourself on this important issue.