Domestic Violence is Everyone’s Problem

Domestic Violence is Everyone’s Problem


October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The epidemic of domestic violence has become much more public in recent years, but the problem persists. Most advocates for victim’s rights believe that education, awareness, and prompt action can go a long way toward meeting this issue head on.
Domestic violence tends to perpetuate it self from one generation to the next. Child who witness domestic violence are much more likely to be abusers or be abused when they are older. Stopping this vicious cycle is all our responsibility!

Women, men, and children are victims everyday and in every community. What can you do? If you or someone you know is being abused, call the Washington State Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-562-6025 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or at TTY 1-800-787-3224. Reporting the problem can go a long way toward getting these victims the help they need.

There are a number of private legal actions available to DV victims. You can report the problem to the police, they will be very proactive in addressing the problem. For children, CPS can investigate allegations and help get the appropriate protection. Adult Protective Services can investigate allegations for older folks. You can ask the court to enter a civil protection order – if violated, it is a criminal offense. A family law attorney can help you get out of a violent situation, and help get legal protection from future violent behavior.

In addition, although not my area of specialty, counseling can really help deal with the abuse in a healthy way. There are any number of qualified counselors who work with DV abuse victims in every area of our state. There are also programs available through church and non-profit organizations that can help at little or no charge.

The real solution is awareness and action. Taking that first step to get help is often the hardest, but is also the most important.