October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

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Domestic violence can happen to anyone regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, religion or gender. Domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels. Domestic violence occurs in both opposite-sex and same-sex relationships and can happen to intimate partners who are married, living together or dating. 

Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses and the community at large. Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life; therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers. 

Family Advocacy is a program designed by the Department of Defense to provide services for the purpose of preventing and intervening in child and spouse maltreatment. These services are broad and include: the New Parent Support Program, Victim Advocacy, Individual, Family, Group, and Marital Therapy, Incident Reporting as well as other preventive and therapeutic services. 

Everyone should be aware of the signs and risk factors of abuse as well as the stages of domestic abuse. If you suspect that someone you know, whether a child or adult, is experiencing abuse or neglect call 987-7377 and speak to a Family Advocacy Staff member.

The key to stopping domestic violence is to stop it before it begins. Be the person who takes the time to care.

(Courtesy of the 19th Medical Group)