October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, #1Thing Can Make All the Difference

Domestic violence impacts millions of people each year, but it can be prevented. It requires the collective voice and power of individuals, families, institutions, and systems – each whose “one thing” adds a valuable and powerful component to transforming our communities.

That is why the October, during Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), HaysMed is asking “What is the #1Thing you can do to end domestic violence?”

“Many people care and understand that domestic violence is a serious public health problem. They want to do something but believe their actions can’t make a difference,” said Trisha Haskell, HaysMed Forensic Program Coordinator. “It feels overwhelming. But change can start with only #1Thing. Imagine if all 21,000+ individuals in the Hays area each commit to doing just #1Thing to stop domestic violence. We could really see some serious social transformation.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime.

“Right here in Hays, HaysMed has already provided services to numerous victims of abuse and violence this year,” added Cammie Townley, HaysMed Trauma Program Manager. “That is why we need everyone – advocates, medical professionals, educators, survivors, researchers, policy makers, law enforcement officers, business owners, students, and more, to do #1Thing to stop domestic violence here in Hays.

#1Thing you could do to address domestic violence:

• Be a caring and consistent adult in the life of a child
• Talk to loved ones about violence and oppression
• Create a culture of consent in your home
• Use social media to raise awareness among your peers organizations to establish
• Reach out to my local domestic violence program to learn how you can help
• Listen to and validate a survivor of trauma

HaysMed’s Forensic Program has proven to be an essential resource in the region, ensuring that those affected by violence receive the support they need. The program works in close collaboration with various community partners to provide comprehensive care, thereby making a positive impact on the well-being of the local population.

This October join HaysMed as we honor those whose lives were taken by domestic violence, celebrate the tremendous progress victim advocates have made over the years, and connect with one another with a true sense of unity to end domestic violence.

 

Resources:

https://www.dvawareness.org/1thing

Smith, S.G., Chen, J., Basile, K.C., Gilbert, L.K., Merrick, M.T., Patel, N., Walling, M., & Jain, A. (2017). The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS): 2010-2012 State Report. Atlanta, GA: National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.