Planned Parenthood Stands with Survivors During National Domestic Violence Awareness Month
For Immediate Release: Oct. 3, 2018
COLUMBUS, OH – Last year in Ohio, 115 individuals lost their lives as a direct result of domestic violence. One-third of these deaths were the result of suicide and one-quarter involved child witnesses at the scene. During National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio (PPGOH) stands with survivors and urges all those in dangerous situations to reach out for help. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is staffed 24-hours a day with trained individuals ready to offer the support needed to move forward (1-800-799-7233).
Anyone can find themselves in an abusive relationship, no matter their age, gender, or sexual orientation. Movies and TV shows that depict abuse might give the impression that an abusive relationship is only when someone is getting hit or physically hurt. But there are different types of abuse that can affect your body, your emotions, and your self-esteem. Each relationship is different, and the signs of an abusive relationship can vary. But all of these behaviors are ways that one person tries to maintain all of the power in the relationship and control their partner.
Statement from Diego Espino, Vice President of Community Engagement, Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio:
“In a healthy relationship, both people feel good about the relationship most of the time. A great relationship takes more than attraction – it takes work, and both individuals have to be committed to put in the effort. Last year, Planned Parenthood educated over 38,000 people, in middle and high schools, on college campuses, and in communities, speaking on topics including healthy relationships, individual responsibility, and personal autonomy over one’s body.
“No one should ever feel scared or be placed in danger by their partner. There is never an excuse for domestic and intimate partner violence and the victim is never at fault. It can become easy to accept excuses and allow the violence to continue. When a survivor comes to one of our health centers, we will ensure they receive the immediate care they need and offer resources to guarantee their safety, and the safety of their family.”
According to a recent study, one-in-four children in Ohio will experience domestic violence. If exposed to violence, these children have twice the odds of being neglected and are 2.6 times likely to be physically abused, 4.9 times likely to be sexually abused, and 9.6 times likely to be psychologically abused. Planned Parenthood’s Ohio Center for Sex Education works every day to support positive relationships and break the cycle of violence across the state.
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About Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio: The mission of Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio is to protect, promote, and provide empowered health care for generations of women, men, and families across Ohio. PPGOH serves approximately 65,000 patients annually throughout Ohio including metropolitan areas in Toledo, Akron, Canton, Youngstown, Mansfield, Cleveland, Columbus, and Athens. www.ppgoh.org.