Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Don’t suffer silently or be a silent spectator of domestic violence. Let’s raise our voice and help raise awareness against domestic violence. Domestic violence exists in everyday life in all countries and societies. It may take different forms and is not just physical. It can be verbal or mental and is a huge problem. The objective of the Domestic Violence Awareness Month is to make people aware of the problem and its consequences and the importance of standing up against it. Though majority of the victims of domestic violence are women and children, it can affect almost everyone; children, youth, individuals, families, and the community. It has immediate and long-term outcomes that can include serious mental and physical problems, the inability to function in society, financial turmoil and death. In Canada, we have some of the most thorough and advanced laws in the world to protect women and children. However, violence against them is still a serious problem. Some of the efforts that government is taking to help stop domestic violence are:

• Teaching the next generation that violence is wrong
• Training more health care providers to assess patients for abuse
• Implementing workplace prevention and victim support programs
• Making services available to all victims including immigrants and children who witness violence

Signs that you are in an Abusive Relationship If you answered ‘yes’ to even one of these questions, you may be in an unhealthy or abusive relationship. There are many reasons why abusers behave the way they do and why it is sometimes difficult to leave. Don’t hesitate to call us on Assaulted Women’s Helpline Numbers, if anything you read raises a red flag about your own relationship or that of someone you know. Assaulted Women Helpline Numbers

• GTA                            416.863.0511
• Toll Free                     1.866.863.0511
• TTY                             416.364.8762
• Toll Free TTY            1.866.863.7868
• Mobile                        #SAFE (#7233)

What usually happens? In many cases victims keep living with domestic violence; thinking that they are the only people dealing with it. Mostly they are embarrassed to get help or their resources are limited because their abuser doesn’t want them to get help. Sometimes it takes a long time before victims are able to reach out and change their situation, but knowing what help is available will plant the seed, even if they are not able to get out right away. Things you can do to end domestic violence? Domestic violence keeps going when we are silent; but if we take a stand and work together, we can end domestic violence. If you meet a victim of domestic violence let them know that they are not alone and that support is available. Strong families lead to strong communities, and there are resources to aid families wherever possible. Throughout the month of October, help us raise awareness about domestic abuse and join the efforts to end violence. Some of the things that you can do to help stop domestic violence are:

• Be a positive role model for other people. If you know someone who is abusive toward their partner tell them their behaviour is not right and they need to get help to stop.
• Speak out against domestic abuse and violence. This usually has a powerful effect in helping change attitudes and social norms which support and perpetuate abuse.
• Confront sexist, racist, homophobic and all kinds of prejudiced jokes or remarks.
• Reach out and support victims of domestic violence. Gently ask if you can help.
• Participate in local community events to raise awareness of domestic violence and join the white ribbon and purple ribbon campaigns.