Breaking the Silence: Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Breaking the Silence: Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, also referred to as Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Awareness Month. This is a time to shine a spotlight on the realities of domestic violence, encourage community action, and provide support to survivors. According to recent CDC studies, approximately 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experience some form of IPV in their lifetime, including physical, sexual, or emotional abuse by a partner. These figures highlight just how pervasive the issue is and indicate that someone in your circle may currently be struggling with abuse in silence.

Beyond the personal trauma, the economic and social costs of IPV are profound. The CDC estimates the lifetime economic burden of IPV to be over $3.6 trillion in the United States, accounting for healthcare, lost productivity, and other social impacts. While women are more frequently victims, male survivors and marginalized communities also experience high levels of violence, often with additional barriers to seeking help.

Raising awareness is crucial to breaking the silence around domestic violence. Prevention efforts can be effective by promoting healthy relationships, providing accessible support services, and fostering community environments where survivors feel safe to seek help. This month, we can all make a difference by educating ourselves, checking in on loved ones and our residents, and supporting organizations that provide vital resources for those affected by domestic violence.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, national helplines and local shelters offer confidential support. Every voice raised in awareness brings us one step closer to a world where safety and respect are the norm for all individuals.

Sources: CDC (2024), Domestic Violence Research (2024)