HONOLULU (KHON2) — October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the Domestic Violence Action Center or DVAC says it’s important that we shine a light on this complex issue.
They say domestic violence is not easy to talk about, but we must. Domestic violence affects our entire community. One of their goals at DVAC is to remove the stigma associated with this issue.
DVAC says survivors experience chronic stress, anxiety, depression and have an increased risk of substance abuse. Many end up losing their homes.
Domestic violence even affects the workplace. It is estimated that 25% of workplace problems, such as absenteeism, lower productivity, turnover and excessive use of medical benefits, are due to family violence.
Warning signs can include visible signs such as cuts, scratches and bruises, controlling, jealous and verbally abusive behavior, or behavioral changes.
If you or anyone you know is affected by domestic violence, you can call DVAC’s confidential helpline at (808) 531-3771.