October Is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

The Defense Department is United Against Domestic Abuse and supports anyone in our military community who is experiencing or has experienced abuse. Domestic abuse can include physical, emotional and sexual abuse as well as neglect. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a crucial time to acknowledge the department’s commitment to raising awareness through a service-wide campaign.

The campaign encourages the military community to speak up and share tools and resources to prevent domestic abuse and support those who have experienced it. Activities this month and beyond will inform service providers and leaders about safe and effective ways to connect victims with support. They will also help family, friends and concerned community members learn how to assist those who are at risk for domestic abuse.

“Victims of domestic abuse extend beyond military spouses. They may also include service members and those who are dating, living together or who have children in common,” said Mrs. Patricia Montes Barron, deputy assistant secretary of defense for Military Community and Family Policy.

Reach out to your nearest Family Advocacy Program office or call Military OneSource at 800-342-9647 anytime to get connected with a domestic abuse victim advocate, no matter where you are in the world.

“Our military’s greatest advantage is our people. If we stop investing in them, we fail,” said Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman Ramón “CZ” Colón-López. “Military leaders, from NCOs and CPOs to our most senior officers, must create an atmosphere of trust and comradery within our communities. Whether we have people suffering from domestic abuse, battling depression or they just need someone to listen, they need our assurance that we are here for them and will do everything we can to provide help and get them back to the mission at hand.”

A nationwide initiative is underway to raise awareness about how to report domestic abuse and let people know about the resources available to keep victims safe and secure. Resources include safety plans, protection orders and emergency services to address medical, housing, legal and counseling needs.

The DOD recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and is calling on military leaders and the military community as a whole to break the silence about domestic abuse. No matter what your situation is, help is available.

The United Against Domestic Abuse page can help you understand your options for reporting abuse. If you are concerned about your safety and need immediate support, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233, or live chat with an advocate at thehotline.org.

About Military Community and Family Policy

Military Community and Family Policy is directly responsible for establishing and overseeing quality of life policies and programs that help our service members, their families and survivors be well and mission-ready. Military OneSource is the gateway to programs and services that support the everyday needs of the 5.2 million service members and immediate family members of the military community. These DOD services can be accessed around the world 24/7/365.