Domestic violence has no bounds

Editor’s note: This article was written and provided by Putnam County Family Support Services

The month of October is known for trick-or-treating and Halloween festivities, but it is symbolic for something else: Domestic violence awareness.

The Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence defines domestic violence as a pattern of behavior in any relationship that is used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner. Abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic or psychological actions or threats that influence another person. These behaviors frighten, intimidate, terrorize, manipulate, hurt, humiliate, blame or injure someone.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month is used to spread awareness about the signs and dangerous effects of domestic violence.

Abuse does not discriminate. Most people often think of domestic violence as a man abusing a woman, however it spans across race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and socioeconomic backgrounds. In fact, one in four women and one in seven men have suffered from severe domestic violence from their partner.

Domestic violence leaves not only a physical imprint, but a long lasting mental impact on its victims. Possible consequences include post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and attempts and drug and alcohol abuse.

Emotionally, victims may feel hopeless, unworthy, discouraged about the future and unmotivated.

If you or any loved one is experiencing domestic violence and you need help or information, please call Putnam County Family Support Services at 653-4820 or e-mail.

Family Support Services offers 24-hour crisis intervention and ongoing support to victims and their children. All services are free and confidential.

October was designated as the National Domestic Violence Awareness Month in 1989, when the United States Congress passed Public Law 101-112, and the legislation still continues to be passed every year since its birth.