Around and all over the world, October is known to be domestic awareness month. The month is dedicated to spreading awareness, showing support, and fighting against the menace of domestic violence. Research shows that in 2019, about 243 million women and girls were abused or molested by their intimate partners. Every day, more cases of domestic violence erupt, and on most occasions, the victims are not heard and no action is taken to assist them.
The core of domestic violence awareness month is not just to spread the word but also to ensure that women and young girls are listened to and that such cases are reduced. It is also to ensure that justice is served against perpetrators and assistance is provided to victims.
Raising awareness can make it easier for victims to gain assistance and heal from the trauma and effect of being molested and abused. And it isn’t an easy job for anyone. It is the collective responsibility of every person to ensure the safety of girls and women.
In light of the month, here are a few ways that you can make a real difference during domestic awareness month.
- Educate yourself
You are better equipped to help someone else when you are aware of what you are dealing with. Choosing to educate yourself helps you understand what victims of domestic violence experience and that way, you place yourself in a better position to help out. The fight against domestic violence is one that requires a collective effort to be effective. The change begins with each and everyone of us and that includes you. Educate yourself by attending domestic violence conferences. Read articles, watch videos on Youtube and take courses if you have to.
- Spread the word
A vital way to ensure that the fight against domestic violence continues is by encouraging people to be aware of how it affects its victims. By putting the word out there, women and girls get informed and are encouraged to resist or report cases of domestic violence. You can do this through various ways. You can do this by talking to people about the dangers and effects of domestic violence. On social media, and by participating in campaigns, you can help other women and young girls get educated on domestic violence.
- Volunteer
Volunteering is also another simple yet effective way to make a huge difference in the lives of women and girls all over the world. Every year, different organisations and non-profit platforms organize community outreach programs to help women and girls who have been victims of domestic violence. By volunteering, you place yourself in a position to offer a helping hand to victims. Most organizations take in volunteers to help manage the programs but for you, you should see it as an opportunity to be part of a cause that could affect the lives of so many people.
- Show empathy, listen and support victims and survivors
Most victims of domestic violence end up with emotional scars and psychological traumas. These affect their perspective of life and moving on from the pain from such experiences can be difficult. Hence, choosing to be empathetic and kind to them can mean a lot. A good way to observe domestic violence awareness month is by showing support to victims. Whether through finances or by being there for them, support still goes a long way in making a difference.
- Report cases to authorities
In most cases of domestic violence, it is difficult for victims to speak up or reach out for help. Most end up being trapped in abusive relationships with no way out. Hence, reporting cases of abuse can help pull victims out and provide the assistance they need. When you see signs of physical abuse or domestic violence, refuse to keep shut about it! Report to the necessary authorities close to you, and ensure that the victims can access medical services in cases of injuries.
Making a difference in the lives of women and girls who have been victims of domestic violence is a beautiful way to bring change to the world.
