Domestic violence

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. However, the month is also used to draw attention to another issue: domestic violence.

According to the 2009 Crime in Missouri report, 36,943 domestic violence incidents were reported during the year in the state. Statistics beyond the Show Me State are also sobering.

The website www.domesticviolencestatistics.org notes that in the U.S., a woman is assaulted or beaten every 9 seconds. The website also says that according to studies, potentially up to 10 million children witness some type of domestic violence each year.

Fortunately in Southeast Missouri there are resources available to women in these types of abusive relationships. Linda Garner, executive director at Safe House for Women, recently said that the organization's services have become more widely known in recent years and as a result more women are reaching out for help.

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, those of us who have been blessed with happy homes and non-abusive relationship have much to be thankful for. Still, domestic violence does exist, and now is the time to shed light on the issue in an effort to encourage others to seek support.

If you are in an abusive situation, call the Safe House for Women at 651-1614 or 1-800-341-1830. Services are free and confidential.