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Now that October is here, it's essential to recognize that it's not just the month for Halloween. October is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month. It's a crucial time of year to help people in a violent situation by supporting and raising awareness.

Highlighting the issue of domestic violence is so essential because it's something that solely happens behind closed doors. But, unfortunately, that means you could have a close friend or relative who is dealing with it in their own home, unbeknownst to your knowledge.

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It may even be that you have experienced domestic violence and haven't yet found the courage to speak up about it - this month is all about helping people build the courage to transform their lives and leave toxic environments through the support of a friendly and caring community that wants to see people safe and thriving.

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My Own Experience

I know full well that domestic violence can feel inescapable. Also the toll it takes on people's mental and physical health. I found myself stuck in a domestic violence situation with my father just under four years ago – with no help from my family, I turned to the support of therapy and close friends. However, I still felt disconnected in my own personal experience. That's why I decided to start Your Friend Community, a space in which victims of domestic abuse can seek the companionship of peer support counselors.

These people offer insight, guidance, encouragement, and support to those who need it. Therapy can be a big source of help to domestic abuse victims. But, I found that having a community of people who know what it's like to go through these situations is just as powerful. I'm proud to say the work we've done has helped people survive and thrive as they move past their current circumstances, and I hope it continues to do so.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month Helping You Recognize The Signs

Domestic Violence Awareness Month is also important in helping people understand the signs of domestic violence. Giving people while a clearer image of what it is and how to watch out for it. Many people fail to recognize that domestic violence can manifest itself in many ways. It isn't just limited to physical abuse. A huge part of unrecognized domestic abuse comes from mental abuse. This can cause psychological trauma – unlike bruises and bumps, and can be hard to spot.

We hope that through October, we can educate people on the signs of domestic abuse in all forms. Empowering them so that they can reach out and get the support they need. That's why we’re joining National Network to End Domestic Violence’s 2022 campaign theme of #Every1KnowsSome1.The campaign aims to highlight how prevalent domestic abuse can be. Also to emphasize that domestic violence is more than just physical violence. You can find out more about this campaign and how to get involved here.

Purple Day as well as Domestic Violence Awareness Month

On Thursday, October 20^th, 2022, it will also be Purple Day, which is dedicated to domestic violence awareness. On this day, anyone who wants to participate can wear an item of purple clothing to signify their awareness and allegiance to victims of domestic abuse. I've found that this dedicated day canbe compelling in showing victims of domestic violence that it's safe to speak up. Also that you can achieve anything with the support of your community.

In addition, it's a great way to show people that domestic violence is something that affects plenty of people around the world. People don't have to feel alone in their suffering.

Our hopes with this Domestic Violence Awareness month are that those who know victims of domestic violence will begin to recognize the red flags. These are the indicators of a potentially abusive situation so that they can reach out for support.

But, more importantly, we want to do our utmost to ensure that victims of domestic abuse feel comfortable speaking up and seeking out the help they need. Whether that's through the benefit of the Your Friend Community or by other means of support and guidance.

Make a change

So please tell a friend that October is not just for Halloween and help us spread the word about Domestic Violence Awareness Month. By telling your friends and loved ones, you could be saving someone’s life. You will be providing the resources they need to move past a difficult situation and achieve this. If you are a victim of domestic abuse, feel free to reach out to us at Your Friend Community to get the support you need.

No matter how it may feel, domestic abuse is an escapable situation. We hope our events and messaging for this month can offer you with the support you need.

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