It seems like each month brings a new array of unofficial holidays, and October does not fall short of them. This month we recognize domestic violence, a nationwide problem that affects every socioeconomic group. There is even a website dedicated to providing domestic violence statistics. Here are a few of them:

–       Every 9 seconds in the U.S. a woman is assaulted or beaten

–       At least 1/3 women around the world has been beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused in her lifetime; mostly by a member of her family

–       Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women

–       Up to 10 million children witness some form of domestic violence annually

These facts are the sad reality of domestic violence victims. And it’s not just a problem that affects women; 7/10 men in the U.S. experience abuse as well. This is a widespread issue, even grabbing the attention of President Barack Obama. Here is an excerpt of the proclamation he issued:

“My Administration remains devoted to halting this devastating violence. To lead by example, last year I directed Federal agencies to develop policies to assist victims of domestic violence in the Federal workforce. Earlier this year, Vice President Biden announced new grants for initiatives that aim to reduce domestic violence homicides across our country.”

There is no question of whether or not this is a serious problem. It even rolls into the workplace, as victims and abusers alike affect the quality of their and others’ work and work environment. Our last blog post was about the effects of domestic violence in the workplace. That is an excellent resource to re-visit and learn how to respond to domestic violence situations in the workplace.

So what can you do to help stop domestic violence? Head over to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence website and learn how you can support their cause. They have volunteer opportunities as well as an option to donate financially or donate cell phones and other digital electronics.

Two other organizations that work to fight against domestic violence are the National Network to End Domestic Violence and the Domestic Violence Awareness Project.

If you think someone in your workplace is being abused or is an abuser, don’t stay silent. Reach out to your HR department to see what action should be taken. Nobody should feel like they are stuck in the silence of this problem.