Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a pattern of mental abuse and/or physical violence, where one person in the relationship controls another through:

• Physical force or violence, like hitting, kicking, punching, choking or use of a weapon.
• Threats of physical harm or death, or threats to use a weapon.
• Verbal abuse, like name-calling and put-downs.
• Emotional Abuse, like playing mind-games or other threats to make you feel shame or fear.
• Using Children –Threats to take or harm the children, or turn the children against you.
• Isolation – Controls where you go, what you do, whom you can see or speak to.
• Financial Control – Limits jobs, takes paychecks or limits use of money.
• Sexual Abuse – Forced sex acts or rape.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE

• 2 – 4 million women are abused each year
• 1,200 – 1,400 women and 400-500 men are killed each year, by a relationship partner
• 3.3 – 10 million children are at risk of witnessing domestic abuse each year

THERE IS HELP AVAILABLE

Synergy Services offers free and private help to children, teens, women and families of domestic violence.

• Shelter for Women and Children
• Shelter for Teens
• Court Services
• Healthcare Support
• Transitional Living Program
• Counseling for victims of abuse, and their children
• Mentors for Pregnant and Parenting Teens
• Prevention and Education Services
• Job Skills Training
• Children's Advocacy Center

EVERYONE DESERVES TO LIVE A SAFE LIFE

If you are ready to leave, make a safety plan:

• Pack a bag in advance to leave at a friend, family or neighbor's house. Include clothes and favorite toy for children.
• Keep your purse, cell phone, keys and medicine with you. Be aware of exits in case you have to leave quickly.
• Teach children the home address and how to call 911, in case you are unable to.
• Take important items, such as:
  • Driver's license or photo ID
  • Health insurance cards and medicine
  • Birth certificates for you and your children
  • Social Security card or green card/work permit
  • Cash, checks, credit cards
  • Court papers or orders
  • Deed or lease to your house or apartment
  • Pay stubs
• To find immediate safety, go to your nearest Hospital Emergency Room, or Police Station.

TALKING ABOUT ABUSE CAN BE DIFFICULT

WHEN YOU ARE READY, YOUR NURSE OR DOCTOR WILL LISTEN