Domestic violence: Understanding the signs and safety planning

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Domestic violence is not physical violence alone. Domestic violence is any behavior where the purpose is to gain power and control over a spouse, partner, girl/boyfriend or intimate family member. Abuse is a learned behavior; it is not caused by anger, mental problems, drugs, alcohol or other excuses.

A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan that includes ways to remain safe while in a relationship, planning to leave or after you leave.

Everyone in the community has a role in responding to and helping victims overcome domestic violence. For more, click here.

– Julie Peterson, Sojourner Center