Domestic violence happens when a partner in a relationship uses physical violence, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, intimidation, threats, economic abuse, and other forms of intimidation as tools of control. The abuse violates the right to have a healthy, safe, and supportive relationship among partners. Statistics show more women suffer assault compared to their male counterparts. The CDC’s 6-step strategy to combat domestic violence covers teaching safe and healthy relationship building, engaging influential adults and peers, disrupting developmental pathways leading to violence, creating a protective environment, strengthening economic support, and supporting survivors. Rising cases of domestic violence have prompted Connecticut Bail Bonds to start an awareness campaign. The importance of domestic violence awareness cannot be overlooked since it has a direct impact on an individual, communal, and societal wellbeing. Every year in October, the nation marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) to celebrate domestic violence survivors, mourn those lost to abuse, and strengthen the network for change initiatives. Below are effective strategies to promote domestic violence awareness.
Educate Yourself
Statistics show most cases of domestic violence go unreported. Physical abuse can be perpetrated through hitting, kicking, throwing objects, punching, and biting. It is important to recognize that domestic violence is not only reserved for physical violence. The abuses also come in the form of sexual abuse, financial abuse, and emotional abuse. Knowledge is a powerful tool of self-awareness. We can educate ourselves by reading articles, attending events, watching videos and documentaries about domestic violence. It also helps to visit domestic and sexual violence resource centers and organizations to share ideas and learn. Many schools have linked up with counselors to sensitize students on domestic violence.
Learn to Speak Up
Domestic violence ranks among the leading causes of homelessness in the US and contributes to poor health among survivors. The survivors may experience a high rate of anxiety and depression, emotional distress, flashbacks, and sleeping disturbances. Victims may also suffer chronic gastrointestinal disorders and even heart attacks. Stopping domestic violence starts with speaking up. When you speak up, your family, friends, and co-workers will know that domestic violence cases shouldn’t be hidden under the carpet but aired out in public to stem the vice. It is unfortunate to know that domestic and sexual violence thrives in a silent and secretive environment. Studies also show childhood domestic violence is the most potent predictor of violence in later years. For stakeholders, addressing childhood domestic violence can go a long way to prevent future abuses.
Share Experiences and Resources
Sharing domestic violence experiences can open doors to speedy and more lasting resolutions. One major impediment to solving domestic violence is the fact that it is cyclical. For intimate partners or people in a relationship, it is highly critical to watch for the warning signs. The characteristic exhibited by most domestic violence abusers includes jealousy, blaming, degrading attitude, controlling and stalking behaviors. If you have a family member, co-worker, friend, or neighbor caught in the cycle of domestic violence, you should encourage them to share their experience and seek help. Several local and national organizations have been set up to support people experiencing domestic violence and other forms of abuse. These organizations have the resources to offer continuous support and training.
Host Workshops or Training Camps
The government, local businesses, and non-government organizations can sponsor programs co-opting education stakeholders and outreach teams to provide much-needed domestic violence awareness training to peers and cohorts. Important topics for discussion include bullying, teen dating violence, domestic violence 101, child assault preventative program, creating victim-friendly work setting, sexual violence, and harassment, among other topics. Cohorts attending the workshops should also be taught how to show sensitivity, reserve judgment, foster empowerment, and support colleagues in distress.
Participate in Connecticut Bail Bonds Violence Awareness Campaign
Connecticut Bail Bonds understands the perils of domestic violence and what it can do to society’s fabric. The Hartford, CT-based bail bond company has established awareness campaigns at the community level to shed light on domestic violence. The plan involves creating a safety plan, encouraging people to join support groups, and working with professionals. Members of the public and local businesses are invited to participate. Connecticut Bail Bonds offers easy and affordable 24/7 domestic bail bonds to help a loved one get out of jail. Most domestic violence cases have a bail requirement set at $500, among other requirements, but charges can go as high as $50,000 depending on the case. One of the requirements is avoiding or minimizing contact with the accusing party.