Domestic Violence Awareness Month Published Sept. 24, 2012 OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- Why is Domestic Violence awareness important? The first observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month took place in 1987, and was later endorsed by Congress in 1989. Every October since then, the issue of domestic violence has been highlighted in both military and civilian communities across the country. The purple ribbon is the unifying symbol of courage, survival, honor and dedication to ending domestic violence. It is important to bring awareness to this issue to decrease the shame and stigma victims feel and to provide education about what domestic violence is and where to go for services. Without intervention and treatment, domestic violence affects the entire community and generations to come. Domestic Violence is the leading cause of injury to American women between ages 15 and 44. Teens and young women between the ages of 16 and 24 face the highest rate of violence and abuse in their relationships. Pregnant and postpartum women are also at high risk and Domestic Violence accounts for 31 percent of maternal injury deaths in the U.S. We need to work together as a community to stop this violence. We all deserve to be safe in relationships. What exactly is Domestic Violence? There are three types of abuse: physical (being slapped, kicked, punched, pushed or strangled; suffering cuts, welts, broken bones or bruises), emotional (being insulted, intimidated, humiliated or isolated from family, friends, etc.); and sexual (a wide range of forced or unwanted sexual activity). Domestic violence is not an anger management problem; it is about getting power and control over the victim. It is not caused by deployments, stress, alcohol, most drugs, the victim's behavior, or loss of control. It is a choice. It is a crime. What are the warning signs? Red flags include extreme jealousy, very quick involvement in the relationship, dominating the victim's time and isolating them from family and friends, consistently blaming others for problems, history of witnessing or experiencing violence as a child, and low self esteem. DV and the Military: The high profile incidents of violence against women in the military, including five domestic homicides at Fort Bragg in 2002 and allegations of sexual assault in the AF Academy have led to an increased awareness of the problem of violence against women in the military. The victim of domestic violence in the military is usually, but not limited to, the female civilian spouse of a male active duty member. Victims normally have children, and more than half have been married two years or less. Evidence indicates that violence against women in the military is as pervasive as it is among civilians. However, women in the military are particularly vulnerable to abuse due to geographical isolation from family and friends and the potential for social isolation within the military culture. Among the services, the Army has consistently experienced the highest rates of domestic violence, followed by the Marines, Navy and Air Force. What is restricted reporting for adult victims? Historically, commanders and first sergeants were notified when Family Advocacy is informed of a suspected abusive situation. Restricted reporting is now an option for adult victims to make getting help easier. To be considered for eligibility, contact medical personnel, Family Advocacy or a victim advocate. Please note that restricted reporting for adult victims cannot be offered if children witness the violence or there is imminent danger of severe violence / death. The chaplains automatically offer confidential communication and are not required to report to Family Advocacy. How do I get help? Without intervention, the abuse will probably continue to escalate. It is not your fault. You do not deserve to be treated this way. The following are options for seeking help: · Call Family Advocacy at 294-7886 · Call a Victim Advocate (24/7) at 402-403-7436 · Contact a chaplain at 294-5203 or 294-6070 during duty hours or 294-3725 after-hours · Talk to your healthcare provider. · Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-HELP · Call Heartland Family Services (24/7) at 800-523-3666 · Call the YWCA/Omaha (24/7) at 345-7273 For further facts, please see http://www.clarkprosecutor.org/html/domviol/facts.htm.