October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Posted on Oct 09, 2026 at 11:09 AM
Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) is a nationwide annual observance held each October to highlight the prevalence of domestic violence, honor survivors, and mobilize communities toward prevention and support.
Domestic violence affects millions annually, with nearly 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experiencing intimate partner violence in their lifetimes. Domestic violence, often referred to as IPV (intimate partner violence) can present in many forms such as physical, emotional, sexual, or even financial trauma.
Abuse thrives when harmful behavior is excused, when people who see something stay quiet, and when perpetrators are held accountable too slowly or not at all. More than 800 people experience sexual assault every day in the U.S., and every minute, approximately 20 people experience physical violence from an intimate partner. Many more live with coercive control: patterns of manipulation and abuse that leave no visible mark but have long-term harmful impacts on physical and mental health.
Domestic violence significantly increases the risk of mental health conditions such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, and low self‑esteem, with more than half of women in mental‑health settings reporting past or current abuse. Domestic violence can often begin due to an underlying mental illness or substance use disorder.
This month, and every month, we want to acknowledge survivors of domestic violence. We see you, we hear you, we are with you. If you or someone you know is impacted by domestic violence or its lasting effects, do not hesitate to reach out to a professional and law enforcement. Prevention is possible, and all of us have a role to play.
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