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Tjiuana Odom, outreach manager of Hurlburt Field's Family Advocacy Program stands in front of a display created for National Domestic Violence Awareness Month at Hurlburt Field, Fla., Oct. 25, 2012. Domestic Violence Awareness Month officially became a national event in 1987.
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'Silence is a Killer'
Posted 10/30/2012 Updated 11/2/2012
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by Airman 1st Class Nigel Sandridge
1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
10/30/2012 - HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and Hurlburt's Family Advocacy Program wants everyone to know the signs and symptoms of abuse, and that there are resources available for help.
"Silence is a killer," said Tijuana Odom, outreach manager of Hurlburt Field's Family Advocacy Program. "Not telling someone that something is going on could lead to death and it is very important to notify proper authorities. If you feel like you or someone is in danger don't hesitate to ask for help. You could save a life."
There are many types of abuse to include but not limited to: physical, verbal, control, possessiveness, jealousy and stalking. Abuse affects a wide range of people, military and civilian alike.
"Everyone is affected," Odom said. "When most people think domestic violence, they assume that it's just women; men are affected too, as well as children and pets."
FAP offers services for those seeking help.
"Here we offer mental health services, anger management classes and stress management classes," Odom said. "Additional services [are available] from local domestic violence shelters, as well."
While domestic abuse can be a traumatic experience and most people are afraid or choose not to talk about it, there can be great consequences from avoiding the subject. Odom believes that highlighting the problem is a key to cultural awareness, and cultural change.
"Domestic Violence Awareness Month is important because it helps the community become aware of the appropriate resources and gives them a voice to be heard," said Odom
Domestic violence awareness gained prominence in 1981 when women's advocates created the Day of Unity Week as an outreach program for abused spouses and children. The week became a national month for awareness of the issue in 1987.
For more information, please contact the Family Advocacy Program at 850-881-5949
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