Not everyone knows it, but October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
At SafePlace along with the Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence want to share with you information that not only benefits those actively experiencing abuse, but can better assist friends and family of survivors, and help them navigate these complexities with their loved ones.
What are we talking about when we talk about abuse?
Abuse is a pattern of behavior that one person uses to gain power and control over the other. This behaviors aren’t always the visible signs one often associates with abuse…they include
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Isolation
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Emotional abuse
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Monitoring
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Controlling the finances
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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. As friends and family who want to help, we can restore those choices that have been restricted or taken away by abuse.
If you or anyone you know needs someone to talk to RIGHT NOW, please call our 24 Hour Helpline at (360) 754-6300 (tty:711)