What is Domestic Violence???

Domestic Violence (abuse) is a pattern of behavior that one person uses to gain power and control over the other. These behaviors can include:

• Isolation from friends and family
• Emotional abuse and psychological abuse
• Monitoring/Stalking
• Controlling the finances (financial abuse)
• Physical and sexual assault

The fundamental harm of abuse is a loss of autonomy. Autonomy means independence and freedom from external control. Everyone should be free to make their own choices in relationships.

How Can I Help???

• Educate yourself and others about domestic violence.
• Get involved! Show your support.  Volunteer. Make donations.
• Be a friend.  Help a friend in an abusive situation by being a good listener.  talk about it. Tell them “This is not your fault.”  Help them find resources.
• Be nonjudgmental.  Domestic violence does not discriminate against race, socioeconomic status, marital status, lifestyle or age.  Know that violence is not acceptable.  She/He did not “ask for it.”  She/He did not “deserve” it.  She/He does not “like it”.
• Be an example.  Make a commitment to the cause.  Join a community or parish.  Let others know about your commitment.
• Tell – Guilt and shame belongs to the perpetrators.

Domestic violence is complicated, but help is available. You can talk with and advocate anytime (you don’t have to be in crisis) to sort out how to help someone who is in an abusive relationship or to get help yourself. Call Healthy Families at 360-452-3811 or our 24/7/365 Crisis Line @ 360-452-HELP (4357).