October Is Domestic Violence Awareness Month — Let’s Talk About It

Every October, we take time to recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) — a chance to shine a light on something that affects far too many people, often in silence.

At For Every Woman, we believe that every woman deserves to live free from fear, control, and harm. This month, we’re standing with survivors, raising awareness, and reminding everyone that hope and healing are possible.

What Domestic Violence Really Looks Like

When we hear “domestic violence,” we might picture physical harm — but it’s often much more than that. Domestic violence, or intimate partner violence, is any pattern of behavior used to gain power and control over another person in a relationship.

It can include:

• Physical abuse — hitting, slapping, or any kind of physical harm
  
• Emotional or psychological abuse — insults, threats, manipulation, or isolating someone from family and friends
  
• Sexual abuse — forcing or pressuring someone into unwanted sexual acts
  
• Financial abuse — controlling money, access to resources, or the ability to work
  
• Digital abuse — constant texting, checking messages, or tracking someone’s phone
  

Every situation is different, but the goal is always the same: control.

The Hard Truth — Some Numbers to Know

Behind every statistic is a real person — someone’s friend, sister, daughter, or neighbor. Still, these numbers help us see how widespread this issue really is:

• 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experience physical violence from a partner in their lifetime.
  
• More than 10 million people experience domestic violence each year in the U.S.
  
• Every 9 seconds, a woman is assaulted or beaten.
  
• When a gun is involved, the risk of being killed by an abusive partner goes up five times.

Those are staggering facts — but they’re also reminders of why awareness matters. Many survivors stay silent because of fear, shame, or not knowing where to turn. By talking about it, we help break that silence.

Why This Month Matters

Domestic Violence Awareness Month began in the 1980s as a way to bring survivors together, honor lives lost, and educate communities. Today, it’s about more than awareness — it’s about action, empathy, and empowerment.

Here’s what this month is really about:

• Breaking the silence — abuse thrives in secrecy. Talking about it helps survivors feel seen and supported.
  
• Educating others — learning the warning signs and understanding what healthy relationships look like.
  
• Honoring survivors — celebrating their strength, resilience, and courage to rebuild.
  
• Taking action — from supporting local shelters to speaking up for change, we all have a part to play.

The Hidden Impacts

Domestic violence doesn’t just leave physical scars. It can take a deep emotional and mental toll — leading to anxiety, depression, trauma, and long-term health issues.

It can also affect families and children. Kids who witness violence may struggle in school, develop trust issues, or grow up thinking abuse is “normal.” Breaking that cycle starts with awareness, compassion, and early intervention.

And leaving isn’t simple. Survivors often face financial barriers, fear for their safety, or lack of support. On average, it takes several attempts before someone can safely leave an abusive relationship — which is why community support is so important.

How You Can Make a Difference

You don’t have to be an expert to help — small actions add up. Here are a few ways you can make an impact this month and beyond:

1. Learn and share

Educate yourself on what abuse looks like. It’s not always obvious — sometimes it’s subtle control, not bruises. Share what you learn with others. Awareness spreads safety.

2. Believe survivors

When someone opens up about abuse, the best thing you can do is listen and believe them. Don’t ask “why didn’t you leave?” — instead, say “I’m here for you” or “You don’t deserve this.”

3. Use your voice

Talk about Domestic Violence Awareness Month on social media. Use hashtags like #DVAM2025 or #WithSurvivorsAlways to help others find resources and know they’re not alone.

4. Support local organizations

Donate, volunteer, or share the mission of shelters and crisis centers that provide housing, legal help, and counseling. They’re doing life-saving work every day.

5. Check in with friends

Sometimes, the people we love are quietly struggling. If something feels off, gently ask, “Are you okay?” or “Do you feel safe?” Those small questions can open a door.

6. Advocate for change

Support policies and programs that protect survivors and hold abusers accountable. Change starts when we all decide safety and dignity are non-negotiable.

You Are Not Alone

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available — 24/7, free, and confidential.

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Or chat online at thehotline.org

You deserve safety, freedom, and a love that lifts you up — not tears you down.

This month, and every month, For Every Woman stands with survivors. Together, we can break the silence, end the cycle, and build a world where every woman lives without fear — and with hope for what’s ahead.

Read next: PTSD in Women: Symptoms, Health Impacts, and How to Heal