“The greatest wealth is health.” ~ Virgil more

Epidemic: Domestic Violence

There is an epidemic in America called domestic violence. It is a silent killer of families, lives and hopes. In a civilized nation as the United States, we cannot seem to control or eliminate violence in our country let alone in our homes. It is a perpetual deviant that runs rampant throughout generations, destroying the very fiber of our family. It destroys self-esteem and leaves lasting scars on victims, family members, and friends. Our children witness verbal and physical abuse from watching television only to have much of it reinforced in their homes.

Who's responsible for this harsh reality of self-hate manifesting itself into domestic violence? Victims who live in abusive homes are often asked the question 'why do they stay? I beg to differ, the question shouldn't be why do they stay but 'why do they batter?' I think we re-victimize the victim by not putting the accountability on the batterer/abuser. I am not saying that victims should remain in a place where their lives are in danger but let's put the light on the source of the problem. If we continue to put the blame on those who are victimized we send mixed messages as though the abuse wouldn't have happened if there was no victim. This faulty thinking can cause us to start looking at the wrong reason why domestic violence occurs.

So what can we do as a society to minimize and/or rid ourselves of this evil? I contend that it starts with education. The key is knowledge, we must make aware what domestic violence is and clearly define there is an epidemic. We must first define domestic violence so that both victim and abuser understand domestic violence is about power and control. Learning the techniques and behaviors that are used to get power and control over others we can then begin to recognize the danger in self and others.

Those who abuse need psychological help. Those who experience the trauma and abuse need counseling as well. For anyone psychologically abusing or physically batter I urge that you get help immediately. There are agencies and hotline that you can contact who can get you the help that you need. For victims and survivors of domestic violence there is the domestic violence hotline accessible anywhere within the US Seek counseling, seek it soon so that you can begin to live the life God intended for you.

NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE
1.800.787 SAFE 7233