Todd Hunter represents part of Nueces County. Contact him at todd.hunter@house.texas. gov or at (512) 463-0672 or (361) 949-4603.
The month of October is recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. According to the National Research Center on Domestic Violence, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men are affected by domestic violence. Unfortunately, this means that this is a common problem for many people. Additionally, it is estimated that annually 20 million people will be abused by their partner. Therefore, millions of people are in a constant state of fear for their livelihood. As a result of the alarmingly high statistics, it is important to be educated about domestic violence and to be aware of the signs to protect those around you from domestic violence.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a critical month for the public and survivors of domestic violence. The purpose of this month is to raise awareness regarding domestic violence. The Domestic Violence Awareness Project describes domestic violence as “a pattern of abusive behaviors–including physical, sexual, and psychological attacks as well as economic coercion–used by one intimate partner against another (adult or adolescent) to gain, maintain, or regain power and control in the relationship.” Abusers use a wide variety of methods to scare, terrorize, humiliate, injure, and in some instances kill their partners. Domestic violence is incredibly dangerous since this can have lasting emotional, psychological, mental, and physical effects on those being abused by their partners.
In addition to the horrible effects of domestic violence, anyone can be a victim regardless of gender, race, or age. Due to this, it is important to know the signs of domestic violence. A few of the signs that someone is being abused are: someone telling their partner they never do anything right, showing jealousy when their partner spends time with friends rather than with them, insulting or shaming their partner in front of others, and blaming their partner for their violent behavior. If you believe someone is being abused, reach out to them and inform them of their options to get help.
For more information about domestic violence and resources to help those being abused, please visit the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence’s website ncadv.org/.
Along with this, The Purple Door is a great resource in the Coastal Bend which helps those who have been affected by domestic violence purpledoortx.org/.
Additionally, you can visit the Domestic Violence Awareness Project to learn more about the importance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month www.dvawareness.org/about-dv.
Also, The National Domestic Hotline is 1-800-787-3244 and is available 24/7.
My offices are available at any time to assist with questions, concerns, or comments.
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