by Kayla Woody, CPN House of Hope DVPI Prevention Specialist
October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The Citizen Potawatomi Nation House of Hope is here to help those actively experiencing abuse in their intimate relationships.
Every year, more than 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men in the U.S. deal with domestic violence daily. This abuse accounts for 15% of all violent crimes, as shown in a report by the U.S. Department of Justice.
In the state of Oklahoma, nearly half of women and 40 percent of men either have or are currently experiencing abuse from an intimate partner. These staggering numbers mean there are likely a handful of people that you know who are experiencing abuse.
The House of Hope wants to raise awareness to prevent abuse from happening in relationships.
Speaking up about domestic violence and reaching for help is no easy task. Many victims are unaware that what they are experiencing is abuse. When an individual is raised in a home with unhealthy relationship dynamics, abusive behaviors are seen as normal.
Many lack a healthy relationship to use as a baseline for what is acceptable. Studies suggest that 15.5 million children in the U.S. witness domestic violence (cpn.news/domesticviolence) each year by the age of 17. These children are at greater risk of repeating the cycle as adults by either entering abusive relationships or becoming abusers themselves.
Other individuals experiencing abuse have countless barriers holding them back from leaving the situation. Experiences like isolation, financial control and even constant threat of harm are enough to eliminate the option of leaving for many.
The CPN House of Hope offers a variety of options that meet individuals where they’re at to provide support and safety. Our advocates create unique safety plans with victims to ensure a successful process.
We also offer emergency shelter for individuals who may not have a safe place to transition into. Our staff is trained to provide victim-centered services with an understanding of abusive tactics and dynamics.
If you or someone you know is actively experiencing domestic violence, stalking and/or sexual violence and would like more information, contact CPN House of Hope at 405-275-3176 or visit us online at cpnhouseofhope.com.
