While domestic violence month is over, it doesn’t mean we need to stop fighting for the abuse to stop. I read something shocking the other day. I was astonished that a number of women who die from domestic violence were higher than a number of casualties lost during a war! Now, think about that for a second.
Domestic violence affects everyone, it affects children, friends, siblings, and even employers of the victim. Did you know the amount of work women miss due to domestic violence is equivalent to 32, 000 full-time jobs?
While men are also victims of domestic violence, women make up the most percentage of victims. Many people wonder why women and men would put up with this abuse. There are many reasons that include:
- Little to no education
- Poverty
- Low Self-Esteem
- Co-Dependency
- And more
From an outsider’s standpoint, it seems pretty effortless. If someone is abusing you, physically, verbally or emotionally, you leave. However, most mistreated women often find it hard to leave, and sometimes they never leave. Some of these reasons include:
- Women often find it shameful to expose the abuse and tolerance of their abuse
- Some are brainwashed by their partners to believe they can’t cope without him
- Fear – A woman tends to stay with her abuser who threatens her with harm or threatens to kill her if she ever tries to leave
- Women may feel financially dependent on their abusers
- Some find it difficult to leave when children are involved.
- Some are attracted to their partner and some feel like they deserve the abuse
It’s a devastating experience. However, some women have taken steps to stop the abuse, build their self-esteem, and overcome their fear. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, there are many things you can do to stop the abuse. Here are some ways domestic violence can be a thing of the past:
- Report the abuser and get help
- Get a restraining order against the abuser
- Secretly save as much money as possible and plan your “ Escape”
- Hide an overnight bag and be ready to leave at a moment’s notice
- Confide in someone you trust about the abuse
- Know that it’s not your fault and you deserved to be loved and happy
- Attend Domestic Violence support groups
- Seek psychological therapy
- Avoid all contact and communication with your abuser
- Keep yourself busy with community work, hobbies, and employment
Remember, a partner is supposed to love you instead of abuse you. If you or someone you know is a victim of Domestic Violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 to get help now!