Emerging from the Darkness of Domestic Violence

A Beacon of Support and Recovery

This month’s blog focuses on the topic of Domestic Violence. As a co-founding organization and member of the Fairfax County Domestic Violence Action Center (DVAC), The Women’s Center counsels and supports hundreds of survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault each year. The Center also partners with the Office of Victim Services in Washington, DC to offer free counseling, support, and programs to residents of the District. Allison Medina, Director of Domestic and Sexual Violence Services at The Women’s Center provided subject-matter-expertise for this month’s topic.  

Domestic violence, a phrase that evokes fear, shame, and helplessness, is often shrouded in secrecy, hidden behind the closed doors of homes we perceive as sanctuaries. Domestic violence is rarely a one-off occurrence and goes far beyond domestic disputes. Domestic violence is defined as a pattern of abusive behaviors used by one individual intended to exert power and control over another individual in the context of an intimate or family relationship. The ongoing behavior is neither a coincidence nor the result of an acute time-limited crisis. Rather, domestic violence usually refers to an ongoing pattern where the abuser acts to exert control over the other person in the relationship.  

Even though many domestic violence cases go unreported (often due to fear, feelings of shame, and/or dependency on the abuser), the prevalence of domestic violence is unquestionably one of the most significant issues facing society today. Domestic violence affects millions of people in the U.S. and is experienced by one in four females and one in five males during their lifetime. Domestic violence affects all races, ages, genders, sexualities, religions, and economic conditions.  

Particularly throughout, and in the ongoing aftermath of the global pandemic, the United Nations has called domestic violence a “Shadow Pandemic” due to its often-hidden nature and the long trail of issues it causes for victims and their families. Domestic violence is a far-reaching scourge that frequently extends beyond the pain of physical assault; it can include emotional, psychological, financial, and sexual abuse that traps victims in a cycle of fear and despair. Violence or abuse in any form has documented and severe health consequences for the victim. In addition to the immediate physical health consequences, domestic violence has clear connections to mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), severe depression, suicide ideation, and addiction. Moreover, domestic violence often leads to social and economic impacts (work, school, finance/credit, housing). Even after the victim has escaped the immediate threat, legal proceedings, ongoing interactions with the abuser, and lasting emotional trauma can prolong the suffering and hinder the healing process. 

Given the pervasiveness of domestic violence and its far-reaching impacts, communities across the United States have risen to the challenge, creating a vast network of resources to support survivors. From support and counseling services to shelters, transitional housing programs, legal aid, and community resources, the breadth of support available is a testament to the collective commitment to empowering survivors. Despite this widespread effort, the landscape of domestic violence support is far from uniform. The availability and scope of resources vary significantly by state and region, creating a complex maze for survivors to navigate. This patchwork of support can make it challenging for individuals to understand and access the services they need, hindering their journey toward healing and safety. 

The Women’s Center offers guidance and support for victims of domestic violence. The Center’s Break the Cycle program starts by addressing the immediate needs of the victim but also supports longer-term needs as the victims work to free themselves from the cycle of violence. When domestic violence victims call and speak with a member of The Women’s Center support team, The Center will first do an initial risk assessment to see the level of danger the victim might be in and will develop a safety plan to reduce the most pressing risks.  

Once the immediate risks are mitigated, The Center’s support team will work with the victim to refer them to resources in the community including shelters, food banks, immigration assistance, counseling, family law, and medical care. The Women’s Center also offers various programs for survivors of domestic violence including several financial and educational workshops to help clients return to the workplace. Our free twice-monthly drop-in group allows survivors to learn about resources in the community and, if desired, connect with other survivors. Finally, as part of the comprehensive approach, The Women’s Center has trained therapists who can help survivors process the trauma of living through traumatic experiences. The Women’s Center works to break the financial, emotional, and psychological barriers to living a life free of violence. 

We recognize that the stigma and shame surrounding domestic violence can be suffocating, silencing the voices of those trapped in its grip. Leaving an abusive relationship is a deeply personal and individual decision, a journey fraught with emotional stress and complex considerations. Regardless of the path chosen, trusted allies and unwavering support can make a profound difference in the lives of survivors.  

The Women’s Center stands in solidarity with survivors, extending a hand of compassion and understanding. We want every survivor to know that they are not alone, that their experiences are valid, and that we are here to help – regardless of whether they want to stay in or leave a relationship. Our primary concern lies in safeguarding the well-being of victims and their loved ones. Whether they seek to navigate the challenges of staying in a relationship or decide to leave, The Women’s Center is here to empower them with knowledge, resources, and unwavering support. Our doors are always open, our hearts are always ready to listen, and our voices are always raised in defense of those who have been hurt.   

For more information, please visit our Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services Web page or call Vienna, VA (703) 281-2657 or Washington, DC (202) 293-4580 offices.