October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. While, as a culture, we have become more open over the decades about talking about domestic violence, offering support, and advocating for survivors, the reality is that domestic violence can still feel like a dark secret — something no one wants to admit is happening in their own community.
But it is happening. All the time.
Estimates show that roughly 10 to 12 million individuals experience intimate partner or domestic abuse in the U.S. each year. And the most recent comprehensive full-year state totals published from official state proclamations and the Michigan State Police Incident Crime Report recorded 67,816 domestic violence incidents statewide, involving 70,432 offenders and 73,220 victims. This does not include the numbers for unreported violence that victims live in silence with every day.
These numbers tell us something: Domestic violence is happening in our communities. More often than we may realize, and perhaps, more often than we are willing to admit.
That is why domestic violence awareness matters. Talking openly about it, understanding the signs, supporting survivors, and knowing where to turn for help are all important steps toward creating a community where this no longer hides in the shadows.
Domestic violence awareness is important because abuse often happens behind closed doors and can be difficult to recognize, talk about, or leave. Awareness helps people understand that abuse is not limited to physical violence—it can also include emotional, psychological, sexual, financial, and technological abuse.
Awareness helps people recognize the warning signs such as understanding controlling, threatening, manipulative or isolating behaviors.
Awareness can help reduce stigma. They may feel shame, blame themselves, or fear that others would judge them.
Awareness can bring to light the mental health impact of abuse. Living in an abusive relationship can affect a person’s sense of safety, self-worth, and emotional well-being.
Awareness can help encourage people to seek support from others. To help survivors connect with mental health professionals, advocacy organizations and local resources.
Awareness can help loved ones respond to signs and knowing what to say — or not say — can make it easier for someone to feel supported.
Awareness helps to promote prevention through educating communities on how to build healthier understanding about boundaries, consent, respect, and safety.
Awareness makes survivors feel like they are not alone. This can be healing.
Do you want to get involved? Check in with your local Domestic Violence agencies to see what Awareness Events they have planned for October.
If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE.