October is the month dedicated to raising awareness about the unfortunate reality of domestic violence.

Unfortunately, domestic violence is quite a common occurrence and can happen to anyone of any gender, race, socioeconomic level, education level, geographical location, etc.

Domestic violence can take a myriad of ways, including physical violence, financial abuse, emotional and verbal abuse, mental abuse, excessive control, etc. 

Sadly, many people may not recognize financial abuse, but it can occur in up to 98% of abusive relationships. Learn more about financial abuse here: Financial Abuse: How to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones (annuity.org) and the importance of financial literacy for women: Women & Financial Literacy: Facts, Resources & Tips (annuity.org)

Well-meaning people often ask, “Why don’t you leave?”

For many domestic violence victims, leaving is challenging because of their abuser controlling the finances, having children with the abuser, not having any place to go, and many other reasons.

The best thing we can do is to support these victims, let them know we are here, and tell them about the resources out there.

There are many wonderful organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline, Partnership Against Domestic Violence, LifeWire,  Helping Survivors and many more that can help support victims.

Additionally, domestic violence and addiction can have a dangerous relationship. Some victims turn to drugs and alcohol to cope with the trauma of domestic violence. Read more about these issues: https://bocarecoverycenter.com/addiction/addiction-domestic-violence/ and https://bocarecoverycenter.com/treatment/trauma-informed.  

In a world where domestic violence shouldn’t be, I’m glad there is light at the end of the tunnel for victims. 💕

If you need immediate help, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1.800.799.7233, text “START” at 88788, or visit the https://www.thehotline.org/