Looking for Domestic Violence resources in the Beach Cities? Visit our Resource Guide.
Domestic violence is detrimental to the health of our community. Beach Cities Health District is committed to preventing domestic violence and helping residents access assistance whenever needed.
About Domestic Violence
- One in every two families in the U.S. is involved in domestic violence at some time
- More than two million women are victims of domestic violence each year
- One million children are physically abused each year
- A woman is battered every 15 seconds
- Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women in the US ages 15 to 44
According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, domestic violence is a pattern of behavior in any relationship that is used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner. Abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person. This includes any behaviors that frighten, intimidate, terrorize, manipulate, hurt, humiliate, blame, injure or wound someone.
Domestic violence can happen to anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion or gender. It can happen to couples who are married, living together or who are dating. Domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels.
Victims in these situations often live in fear of doing the wrong thing, saying the wrong words, embarrassing their partner, feeling they are not good enough. Many victims make excuses for their partner’s behavior and tell half-truths or complete lies to friends and family members. They often feel tremendous shame and guilt, which keeps them from reaching out and asking for help.
Do you need help accessing Domestic Violence resources? Go to our Resource Guide.