Domestic violence awareness
Domestic violence is so much more than bruises and physical abuse. In honor of domestic violence awareness month, I want to share some warning signs and reasons why domestic violence is unfortunately so common.
Research shows that 1 in 3 woman will experience physical abuse from an intimate partner at some point in their life. Young women between 16-24 are at the highest risk. This is very concerning because this can be very traumatic, especially at such a young age. Plus young women might be not seek help.
It’s important to understand that there are different forms of abuse. Physical abuse is only part of the problem. Mental, emotional, psychological and sexual abuse may not be as obvious at first but they are just as traumatic. The reason that violence gets so bad is because we ignore the early warning signs. Abuse starts by name calling, controlling behavior, punching a hole in the wall or throwing something across the room. These things might not seem horrible at first but things can escalate quickly.
It’s very easy to judge victims for staying in unsafe and abusive situations but walking away is not as easy as it may seem. There are a lot of reasons why victims stay. Some common reasons are fear, lack of financial independence, kids, love and manipulation from the abuser. Women tend to be nurturing and we often feel sorry for the abuser and think that we can change them.
Many abusers tend to be narcissists and this type of behavior might have the victim feeling like the abuse is their fault. Example: “He only did that because I did _____”. Victims might also justify the abuse because the abuser may not be bad person. He might be a “great provider” but he treats you like crap, isolates you from family and friends and makes you feel worthless. Or is a “great father” but is verbally abusive when he is drunk. The abuser’s good qualities don’t justify abuse! Mistakes made by you do not justify abuse!
In conclusion, people are not perfect, life is stressful and THINGS HAPPEN! But there are boundaries that cannot be crossed. Respect has to be established and demanded in every relationship. Not only with romantic partners but also with family, in the workplace and even with your friends. Nobody should have the power to make you feel worthless, hurt you or abuse you in any way. Reaching out for help is scary but there are many resources available. Please don’t suffer in silence. You deserve to be safe and respected.
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse please get help!
Visit https://www.thehotline.org/
Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “start” to 88788
I’m here for you if you need help or just need someone to share your story with. I would love to hear from you.
Learn more about me HERE
Connect with me on Instagram @jackiesilva.official
