Many of us may not have ever experienced dating violence in some form or another, whether it be physical or non-physical abuse. But millions all around the world have gone through this horrible nightmare, and many struggled to get out of the relationship or even worse were never able to before being severely injured and even killed.
Abusive relationships exist everywhere, and many are harder to spot than you may realize even if it’s your best of friends going through this struggle. Here are some things you likely didn’t know about abusive relationships and dating violence.
Majority Gendered
The overwhelming majority of abuse and domestic violence victims are women. This doesn’t mean men don’t suffer from abuse as well, but it does remind you how important the women in your life or the world around you are and often how much they’re hiding about their suffering.
Costly
Millions of dollars each year have been spent on dating violence. What does that mean? It means the costs related to law enforcement getting involved in domestic violence cases, legal fees for victims standing up to their abusers or abusers that end up in the justice system, medical or mental health treatment for victims, and more.
Kids Too
If it wasn’t bad enough that women suffer heavily in dating violence, hundreds of thousands of pregnant women suffer partner violence while pregnant. Young children that witness these acts are more likely to be abused or become abusive as adults. And many children end up homeless with their mothers or fathers fleeing from abuse.
Too Many Ways
Dating violence comes in too many forms to count: from physical threats, to attacks, to gaslighting and emotional abuse, to so much more. Chances are most victims never even show any signs of the abuse to their closest friends and family, especially if reaching out for help or talking about the abuse will put them in more danger.
Impacts Health
Besides the direct impact that physical abuse has on the bodies of women, men, and children; dating violence causes many health issues both short and long term. Children witnessing abuse will often be sick more often and suffer long term health impairments. And that’s not even starting on mental health struggles this causes.
Homelessness
In the United States alone, masses of individuals of all ages are homeless due to trying to escape dating violence and abuse at home. Runaway teens often are running from abusive homes, and end up in more danger on the streets. It’s estimated that up to half of the homeless individuals in the U.S. are women and children hiding from abuse.
Now that you know, what will you do about spotting, preventing, and helping victims in abusive relationships? There are so many ways that you can help. But firstly, just remember to let these facts sink in. This is the reality for millions of folk all around the world each year, and it isn’t even every fact we could possibly give you on dating violence and abuse. Share these thoughts and tidbits with friends and family to help them stay safe and educated in their future and to help spread knowledge on abuse. You never know who it could help, or save, in the future.