In the month of October, we dedicate our efforts to shedding light on the critical issue of domestic violence and to acknowledging the staggering statistics that reveal the prevalence of this deeply troubling problem in our society. According to the Domestic Violence Awareness Project, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men have, at some point in their lives, endured some form of abuse at the hands of a partner.

Domestic violence (also called intimate partner violence, domestic abuse, or relationship abuse) is a pattern of behaviors used by one partner to maintain power and control over another partner in an intimate relationship. It can happen to anyone at any point in a relationship. Most often, though, women are the victims.

After the U.S congress declared October as the National Domestic Violence Awareness Month in 1989, many organizations unify to bring effort into addressing the issue of domestic violence. At Saint Francis Ministries, we take the physical and mental well-being of individuals seriously. We are committed to the prevention of domestic violence because we support families and know all too well the trauma it causes.

The following are potential signs that someone your know might be dealing with abuse, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:

• Isolation – Permission is needed before making plans or speaking to friends and family members. Victims may be forced to quit their jobs or drop out of school.
• Low Self-Esteem – Feeling deserving of the abuser’s violence, accepting fault for, and making excuses for their partner’s behavior.
• Unexplained Injuries – Bruises, cuts, scrapes, or even broken bones that are blamed on clumsiness or are in multiple stages of healing.
• Depression or Anxiety – Persistent feelings of hopelessness, fear of angering their partner, and fear of repercussions for seeking help.

Domestic violence includes behaviors that physically harm, cause fear, prevent a partner from doing what they wish, or force them to behave in ways they do not want.

Is there room in your life to be an ally and advocate for someone suffering from domestic violence? If so, refer them to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). You can also learn about other ways to help at their website: https://www.thehotline.org/.