What is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM)?

Domestic Violence Awareness Month is nationally observed every October to bring understanding and awareness to domestic violence, support survivors, and to prevent future cases of violence and abuse. During this month, we wear purple and purple ribbons to signify support for the Fight Against Violence Towards Women, our National Philanthropy.

What Are Signs of Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence occurs in those who are or have been in a close relationship and can also be called Intimate partner violence. It can happen to anyone in different forms, including emotional, sexual and physical abuse, stalking, and threats of abuse. Women are mostly targeted when it comes to domestic violence in heterosexual and same-sex relationships. Early in the relationship, an abusive partner might seem protective, attentive, and generous. Later on, however, that can escalate into controlling and scary behaviors. Some signs to look out for include destructive criticism and verbal abuse, pressure tactics, disrespect, breaking trust, isolation, harassment, threats, sexual violence, physical violence, and denial.                                             

What Can You Do to Support? 

There are many ways you can support a friend or family member who has gone, or is currently going through, domestic violence. By educating yourself and others, you can foster awareness and empathy for survivors and those around them. Some people are unfortunately unaware of signs of domestic violence, but by educating the people around us, we can better detect the signs and seek help.

 Another way you can support a domestic violence survivor is by listening without judgement. Create a safe space for them by allowing them to express their feelings without fear of judgement or blame; many victims can feel isolated or unheard, but lending a listening ear can assist someone during their journey of healing.

We can also encourage professional support and offer resources to those affected by domestic violence. Counseling, trauma specialists, therapists, and support groups are all resources that one could suggest to a survivor of domestic violence in order for them to be able to break the isolation of domestic violence, as well as possible stress-related mental health issues. By offering encouragement to seek help, researching local resources, and offering emotional support at appointments, you can offer the victim with tools in order to rebuild their life. 

What is Eta Chapter Doing to Spread Awareness to DVAM?

During October, we hosted “Phi-nd The Signs” to bring awareness during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The activity involved creating a presentation about red and green flags about fictional or pop culture characters. This activity is meant to be a lighthearted way to spark conversations around real relationship dynamics and help us think about the green flags we should look for and the red flags we shouldn’t ignore.

If you or someone you know needs help with domestic violence and would like to connect with a Live Advocate:

Call 800.799.SAFE

Or

Text “START” to 88788
visit thehotline.org for additional resources.