You can be a part of the solution this domestic violence awareness month

Violence Free Colorado has found that 1 in 7 people in Colorado have experienced relationship violence, and 71% of people don’t know how to prevent it. In recognition of the devastating affect domestic violence can have on individuals and the community, Arapahoe County Commissioners formally proclaimed October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. 

To show your support for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, wear purple on Oct. 19 and post on social media using #PurpleThursday.

“Thank you so much to everyone in our community that partners to help families and help individuals. Without them, Arapahoe County could not provide those necessary services to get people out of those cycles,” said Arapahoe County Commissioner Carrie Warren-Gully.

This October, take time to learn warnings signs and how you can get help for yourself or someone you care about. 

Know the Signs

Signs of an abuser:

  • Extremely controlling behavior
  • Blaming the victim for anything bad that happens
  • Controlling all the finances
  • Demeaning the victim either privately or publicly
  • Embarrassing or humiliating the victim in front of others

Signs someone is being abused:

  • Seeming fearful
  • Changes in sleeping habits (sleeping too much or not enough)
  • Dropping out of activities they would usually enjoy
  • Isolating themselves by cutting off contact with friends and family members
  • Asking permission to go anywhere or to meet and socialize with others

For more warning signs, please visit the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

Get Help

It’s hard to leave an abusive relationship, but you are not alone. There are resources to help you think through your unique situation and create a plan for an abuse-free future:

  • Gaining independence: Public assistance programs such as food, cash, and medical assistance, plus other services like child-care assistance are available to those who qualify. 
  • ArapaSOURCE.org: Access to hundreds of agencies and community services to help families and individuals in need of urgent and ongoing resources in our community.
  • Financial education: Watch webinars created especially for helping those who have experienced domestic violence get back on their feet financially.

For immediate help contact Family Tree’s 24-hour Domestic Violence crisis line at 303-420-6752 or the national domestic violence line at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

How to Help Others

If you suspect someone is in an abusive relationship, there are safety plans, or steps that may help reduce the risk of further harm. These steps can include:

  • Not judging the person or their situation
  • Becoming a confidante by listening to what they tell you
  • Assure that information will stay confidential

For more steps on how to open a dialogue, please visit Family Tree’s How to Help Guide. For additional information, please visit Arapahoe County Human Services’ Domestic Violence Help page. 

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