How domestic violence affects you

Do you think domestic violence is not “your issue” or that people in your life are not affected?

Think again.  Because domestic violence happens in so many relationships and families, it is likely that someone you know has or is currently experiencing abuse – even if they don’t talk to you about it. 

Everyone can play a role in starting conversations about domestic violence in our lives and communities so we can create opportunities for our family, friends, and neighbors to seek support from us and share what is happening in their homes and in their relationships.

What We Can Do As Family, Friends and Neighbors
Chances may be that you know and care about someone who is experiencing domestic violence in their home or relationship. If you look closely and take time to notice the signs, there may be opportunities to reach out and make a difference in the life of someone you care about.  Or maybe you have friends or neighbors that you think should learn more about this issue and how it affects their lives?  There are many things that we can do as individuals to reach out to others, build connection, lend support, and increase understanding about domestic violence.  Here are some ideas to help you get started:

Reaching Out To Someone You Know
Chances may be that you know and care about someone who is experiencing domestic violence in their home or relationship. If you look closely and take time to notice the signs, there may be opportunities to reach out and make a difference in the life of someone you care about.  Or maybe you have friends or neighbors that you think should learn more about this issue and how it affects their lives?  There are many things that we can do as individuals to reach out to others, build connection, lend support, and increase understanding about domestic violence. 

Do you have a tool you can use?
Close to Home believes that the everyday objects that people overlook can be powerful tools to build connections and relationships between people. Simple, everyday activities such as sharing a cup of coffee, playing a game of soccer, or spending time at a local knitting circle can help you to start conversations and build relationships with others.  Building these strong relationships will in turn lay the foundation to help people develop trust and understanding on a complicated, sensitive issue like domestic violence.  Learn more about tools you can use to start a conversation about domestic violence.

Having a Conversation With Someone in a Hurting Relationship
Do you know someone you care about who is in an abusive relationship?  If you have a tool you can use and are planning to reach out to that person, keep in mind that there are also ways you can be in that conversation to make it as comfortable and supportive as possible.  Close to Home worked closely with a group of residents who felt it was important that people know how to reach out to other people who may be in an abusive situations.  Please visit our Tools and Resources section to read these tips on how to reach out and support someone you know in a hurting situation.

Having a Conversation With Those Around You
In addition, whether or not we are living with domestic violence, we all know that domestic violence affects the community and those in it, oftentimes in ways in which we are not aware.  Take the time to talk to those around you to raise the issue of domestic violence and help others gain a better understanding of the issue and how it affects the community. For ideas about how to start the conversation, visit our Tools and Resources section.

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