Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) is every October. It was created as a way for advocates, survivors, political leaders, and more across the country to come together and further resolve domestic violence. Many of us may know domestic violence as different things, such as intimate partner violence, relationship, etc. Domestic violence is when one’s partner does anything to maintain power and control over them. This can be financially, physically, emotionally, mentally, and/or spiritually. 

This year’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month theme is Every1KnowsSome1 (National Network to End Domestic Violence). This theme highlights how domestic violence is more common than some of us may think. Domestic violence looks different across every situation, so it can sometimes be hard to identify. It can also be extremely difficult for domestic violence victims to find someone they feel they can confide in. Domestic violence is not an easy topic of conversation, but acknowledging and validating those around you and being aware of signs can ease some of the stress.