Domestic Violence Awareness Month: how to help someone you know
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This year's campaign says everyone knows someone affected. Here is how to get help or support a friend.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The National Network to End Domestic Violence is running its sixth annual #Every1KnowsSome1 campaign, built on a simple idea: almost everyone knows someone who has been affected by abuse, whether or not they know it.
If you or someone you know needs help, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available at 1-800-799-7233. You can also chat online at TheHotline.org or text START to 88788. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
Supporting a friend can feel uncertain, and that is normal. Listening without judging and letting them know you believe them is a good start. Share the hotline information quietly so they have it when they are ready.
Technology can be part of abuse, through tracking apps or shared accounts. TechSafety.org has guides on phone and online safety, and WomensLaw.org explains legal options state by state.
There are also ways to show support this month. NNEDV encourages people to wear purple on Purple Thursday, Oct. 15, and to give to local programs on the DVAM Day of Giving, Oct. 22.
One practical step today is to save the hotline number in your phone. You may never need it, but someone you care about might.
Sources
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