If you’re in an abusive relationship, you’re not alone. It’s common and pervasive in our society—our county, our country and the world! One in four women and one in seven men experience domestic violence in their lifetime. The good news is that there is help and there is hope.
The purpose of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month is to remind everyone that this is a very real issue in our society. Not only are men or women victims, but 15.5 million children grow up witnessing domestic violence or being victims themselves, and one in seven adults in the United States has grown up with domestic violence. Adverse childhood experiences lead to more substance abuse, mental illness and health problems. More awareness can lead to getting help and breaking that cycle of violence.
If someone is hurting you, is extremely jealous, isolating or controlling you, calling you names or putting you down, get help and support. Call ARCC at 570-265-5333. Information you share is confidential.
If you know someone in an abusive relationship, listen and validate. Tell her or him: “It’s not your fault”. “You’re not to blame.” “You’re not alone.” “No one deserves to be treated this way.” Don’t tell the person to “just leave.” Leaving is never that easy.