October was declared as National Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month by Congress in 1989. a0Domestic violence impacts every community and all people, no matter what race, nationality, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. a0
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one in four women and nearly one in ten men have experienced domestic violence during their lifetime. a0Data from U.S. crime reports show that about one in five murder victims is killed by a former or current intimate partner. a0
Domestic violence can cause negative health issues a0that affect the physical, mental, sexual, and reproductive systems, which can also a0result in a higher risk of engaging in behaviors like binge drinking, smoking, and sexual risk behaviors. Additionally, the a0lifetime a0costs of medical treatment for domestic-violence-related injuries, lost work productivity, criminal justice, and other services add up to $3.6 trillion. a0
This month, we all have a role in bringing awareness to a0how domestic violence is a major public health problem a0and provide support to survivors and victims. Together, we can do our best to end domestic violence. a0
Here are several ways you can be an advocate this Domestic Violence Awareness Month: a0
Wear purple a0– a0Purple is the color of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Wear a0purple during the month of October and use this to a0share why ending domestic violence is important to you. a0Inform others how domestic violence continues to be a public health crisis, as well as stand with survivors and let them know that they are not alone or ignored. a0 a0
Change your social media profile picture and cover photos a0– There are plenty of filters available on social media platforms to show support to Domestic Violence Awareness Month. You can either add a filter to your profile picture or change your cover photo to show you stand with survivors. a0
Donate a0– You can donate to your local, state, and national domestic violence agencies to a0provide extra funding to help domestic violence victims. a0
Educate yourself a0– Knowledge is power! Attend events, watch documentaries, and read articles about the devastating impact of domestic violence. The more you learn, the more you can a0help yourself and others. a0
Listen a0– If you know a friend or a loved one who is experiencing domestic violence or has survived it, offer a listening ear. a0Just being a0there a0goes a long way. a0
If you are a victim of domestic violence in the San Fernando Valley and need to obtain a protective order against your abuser, call Cutter & Lax Attorneys at Law at (818) 839-2533 or complete our online contact form today a0to let us help you. Serving domestic violence victims and survivors in a0Sherman Oaks, Encino, Van Nuys, Studio City, and beyond! a0