Since October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we felt the need to further comment on this important issue.
Domestic violence affects more than 2 million Americans every year, and that number could easily increase if more is not done.
What starts off with comments about what a partner can wear or who they can spend time with can develop into a toxic relationship filled with verbal, mental and physical abuse.
Also, don't be fooled into stereotyping domestic violence as a women's issue, as there are almost a million men affected by domestic violence each year.
This is an issue that doesn't get the attention it truly deserves, and there are some tell-tale signs this is a true statement.
According to a study done in 1990, there were 3,800 animal shelters in the United States, but only 1,500 shelters for battered women.
Yes, there may be more animals than people in this country, but when there are helpless fellow human beings in need of safety and comfort, shouldn't that be a higher priority concern?
So, what can we do? How can we help solve this problem?
Maintain constant vigilance. Look for the signs that someone you know might be in such a relationship.
If someone you know is in an abusive relationship, plead with them to get help and leave that relationship, if only for their own safety and well-being.
If there are kids involved and your friend is worried about them, let them know that many shelters have amenities for people with children.
Above all, offer support, friendship and love to these people. Having a person they can open up to and feel safe with is vitally important, and you could be the strong support they need to finally get themselves out of the abusive situation they are in.
If you think you are in an abusive relationship or are starting to see the warning signs of abuse, take a step back and reflect on this relationship.
If you are being abused, get out; no relationship, no person, is worth you being told or made to think that you are less than what you are.
Even if you've been with your partner for years and you deeply love them, you deserve to be treated with the dignity and respect with which all human beings are endowed.
Take a stand. Be bold. Be aware.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
