Domestic violence (also called intimate partner violence) can include physical, emotional, sexual, or financial abuse, stalking, or controlling behaviors. It is not limited to one gender, age, or background—although statistics show women are disproportionately affected.

• More than 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men in the U.S. have experienced rape, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner during their lifetime.
• Every month, an average of over 70 women are shot and killed by an intimate partner. Access to firearms increases the risk of fatal outcomes in domestic violence situations.
• Almost 6 million women report having had a gun used on them by a current or former intimate partner at some point.
• Domestic violence affects children, too—many children live in homes where they have witnessed or been directly affected by intimate partner violence.

These numbers show how common domestic violence is, and how far-reaching its effects are—not just on physical safety, but on emotional well-being, finances, and community health.

Some warning signs include:

• Isolation from friends, family, or support networks
• Frequent fearful behavior or anxiety around a partner’s reactions
• Unexplained injuries, or repeated “accidents”
• Extreme jealousy, controlling financial or social decisions
• Verbal threats, intimidation, or emotional manipulation

Recognizing signs early can help someone seek help before the situation escalates.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, know that help is available and you are not alone.

• Call The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org for online chat support.
• Local shelters, community programs, and advocacy organizations often provide counseling, legal support, and safe housing.
• Confidential healthcare and mental health providers can assist with injury treatment, emotional support, and connecting you to resources.

We also offer a comprehensive benefits package to ensure survivors have access to meaningful support during difficult times. Please consider taking advantage of the following resources:

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Kalamazoo College has partnered with Behavioral Health Systems (1.800.245.1150) to provide a wide range of assistance programs, from legal support to confidential mental health counseling.
• Care Coordination: Reach out to Stacey Grayson, Care Coordinator, to discuss which options best suit your needs and to receive guidance on next steps.

These benefits are confidential and available to help you or a loved one find the right path to safety and healing.

Even if you’re not directly affected, all of us can play a role:

• Listen and believe when someone discloses their experience
• Share resources and information
• Encourage safe spaces in your community or workplace where people feel supported
• Support policies and practices that protect survivors (e.g. confidentiality, safety planning, protections for employees)

Domestic Violence Awareness Month is more than just marking a date—it’s a time to stand together, inform ourselves, and act. If you or someone you know is facing abuse, please seek help. Support is out there, and everyone deserves safety, respect, and peace.

1. Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2024, October). October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Everytown Support Fund. https://everytownsupportfund.org/october-is-domestic-violence-awareness-month
2. Fairleigh Dickinson University. (n.d.). October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Fairleigh Dickinson University. https://www.fdu.edu/tcc/national-awareness-observances/october-domestic-violence-awareness
3. The Hotline. (n.d.). Domestic violence statistics. National Domestic Violence Hotline. https://www.thehotline.org/stakeholders/domestic-violence-statistics