Mia Martino - Features Editor
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which is meant to advocate efforts to end domestic violence in America. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, “1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner.” Domestic abuse can be seen in many different forms, from verbal or emotional abuse through raised voices, hostile conversations, or manipulation tactics like gaslighting, to physical and sexual abuse, such as pushing, shoving, hitting, or sexual assault. Spreading awareness about domestic violence is important as it could save a life. In some cases, domestic violence can be fatal or detrimental to a person's mental health, and by bringing awareness to it, we can learn the warning signs to help those who might be unable to reach out for help on their own. Awareness creates a community that can help those in need, whether they’re seeking help for themselves or through a friend. Here are some domestic violence warning signs according to Eccovia.com:
The abuser might show extreme jealousy of their partner’s time
The abuser might prevent or discourage the victim from spending time with others
The abuser might insult or shame the victim in front of other people (or privately)
The abuser might attempt to control life decisions of the victim
The abuser might control household finances without discussion, such as taking the victim’s money or refusing to pay for expenses
The abuser might pressure the victim into sexual acts they’re not comfortable with
The abuser might pressure the victim into using drugs or alcohol
The abuser might destroy the victim’s belongings
The abuser might exhibit menacing, threatening behavior
If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of domestic violence, don’t hesitate to reach out to resources both on campus and publically available for the help that you may need. Awareness can save lives. Below are contacts and support websites provided by Lori Ferguson, the Equity Coordinator for Monmouth College, that are available for victims of domestic violence.
Victim Services-24/7 this a confidential advising organization for sexual assault, domestic and dating violence, and stalking
http://wirpc.org/victim-services/
309-837-5555
This is a local organization that can also assist in helping to provide legal orders of protection for victims.
RAINN-24/7 RAINN provides anonymous online chat support from trained specialists for sexual assault survivors:
https://www.rainn.org/about-national-sexual-assault-online-hotline
Center for Prevention of Abuse-24/7 crisis hotline for survivors of domestic and dating violence, stalking, sexual assault, and human trafficking:
http://www.centerforpreventionofabuse.org/
1-800-559-SAFE (7233)