Getting help for domestic violence
Domestic Violence is physical violence, sexual assault, threats, or emotional abuse from one intimate partner against the other. Domestic Violence is more common than we think; in the United States 20 people per minute are victims of physical violence by an intimate partner. Domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, economic status, religion, or race. One in three women and one in four men will experience domestic violence during their lifetime.
Everyone is aware that domestic violence effects your outside physical health. However, it also makes you more susceptible to illness and more likely to have depression or anxiety. People who are affected by domestic violence are more likely to attempt and successfully commit suicide and more likely to miss days of work. Therefore domestic violence can cause you to lose your job, but more importantly, to lose your life.
Your family doctor can help to recognize if you may be affected by domestic violence and give you resources to get help or get out and become safe. If you seem to be acting differently, or have unexplained bruises or with stories that don’t match the marks, your doctor may ask you if you feel safe or if anyone is harming you. If you tell your doctor, they will not force you to leave your situation, but advise you where to go so you can leave when you are ready.
There is help available, starting with emergency shelters that are available 24/7. They can pick you up if you cannot get there on your own. They also can provide legal advice, counseling, support groups and Transitional housing to get you back on your feet. Food, clothing, and personal care items are all available to you in the shelter. If you have a child/children there is help for them as well at the shelter.
YOU ARE WORTH IT! Your brother, sister, daughter, son, friend, is worth it. You are not alone, there is help available, all you have to do is ask or call.
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
In Washington County, call 724-223-9190 or 800-791-4000
In Greene County, call 724-852-2463
In Fayette County, call 724-439-9500
For additional information please talk with your primary care doctor at the Washington Health System or follow the links below.
www.ncadv.org
www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/nisvs
www.peacefromdv.org
Caroline Steinman D.O.
Dr. Caroline Steinman was raised outside of Buffalo, New York. She completed a BS in Environmental Science at Allegheny College and obtained her DO at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. After completing her training in Washington she will be moving to Indiana with her Husband and son to take on a traditional family medicine role performing inpatient, outpatient, and obstetrical services.