Chloe Porchia

October is Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. Resting on October 17th, “purple Thursday” brings light to instances of domestic violence anywhere around the world. If an intimate partner is hurting or trying to control you, do not hesitate to speak out for your safety.

October is the month to acknowledge the horrors of the world and bring awareness to the issue of domestic violence. This month advocates for survivors and those suffering domestic abuse.

Different forms of abuse should be recognized: emotional, physical, financial, sexual, and even digital. 

¨Preventing or discouraging you from spending time with others, particularly friends, family members, or peers; insulting, demeaning, or shaming you, especially in front of other people; preventing you from making your own decisions, including about working or attending school; intimidating you through threatening looks or actions; etc.,¨ according to the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

Those are the common signs of abusive behavior to be cautious of. Yet, determining if someone is dangerous right off the bat is difficult. 

Domestic violence is an issue that should not be as common as it is. 

“Family and domestic violence including child abuse, intimate partner abuse, and elder abuse is a common problem in the United States. Family and domestic health violence are estimated to affect 10 million people in the United States every year,” according to the National Library of Medicine.

There are many people in the United States affected by domestic abuse and they are most of the time left in the shadows. Physicians do as much as they legally can to help those suffering. 

“Physicians are called on — to play a large role in identifying, intervening in, and following up on cases of partner abuse. Yet, even the first step of intervention, screening, is difficult for most physicians. Victims are still not asked about abuse in their relationships and are not receiving the health care they need,” according to the Western Journal of Medicine.

Sadly and statistically, you most likely know or have crossed paths with someone who is either a current victim or survived domestic violence.

“Approximately 1 in 3 women and 1 in 10 men 18 years of age or older experience domestic violence. Annually, domestic violence is responsible for over 1,500 deaths in the United States,” according to the National Library of Medicine.

Unfortunately, domestic abuse continues to be a growing problem that exhibits many damaging effects and trauma. It is encouraged to wear purple on October 17th which is known as “Purple Thursday” or “Go Purple Day”. This symbolizes the peace, courage, and survival of domestic violence survivors.  

If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic abuse, CALL 1.800.799.SAFE (7233) or

TEXT “START” to 88788 to get the necessary safety.