October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Domestic violence also known as intimate partner violence (IPV) is defined as pattern of forceful and threatening behaviors used by a current or former partner to maintain power and control of an individual.  IPV is a public health issue that nationally affects 4 to 6 million persons a year. 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men report being physically abused. Members of LGBTQ community report even higher rates of abuse. As healthcare providers remember to routinely screen your patients for abuse. Ask them if they are afraid of or being threatened by someone. Have they been kicked or slapped or forced in sexual activity?  Document your findings. Refer them to the Domestic Violence Program at LifeBridge Health by calling 410-601-8692. Support and resources are a just a phone call away. The Domestic Violence Program of Sinai Hospital provides 24/7 crisis intervention patients and employees, safety planning, individual counseling, support groups and service coordination. For the month of October: Screen, Document and Refer. We will do the rest. 

We also offering free self-defense classes.  Learn how to better defend yourself in precarious situations.  This 6-week course and instruction is tailored to the needs of the participant. Classes are limited to preserve the quality of instruction. If you have questions or you would like to register for the self-defense class, contact Penny Green, Program Coordinator Domestic Violence Program, 410-601-4217.