Domestic violence awareness month: building relationship health, safety for life | va cincinnati health care | veterans affairs

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). The VA Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program (IPVAP) recognizes Domestic Violence (DV) and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a

serious yet preventable public health problem that may disproportionately affect Veterans. The term, “intimate partner violence” describes physical, sexual or psychological harm (including

coercive acts) by a current or former partner or spouse that occurs on a continuum of frequency or severity and does not require sexual intimacy or cohabitation. The IPVAP provides

comprehensive and integrated services through a trauma-informed, person-centered and recovery-oriented approach. The IPVAP recommends and promotes prevention and early intervention for those

impacted by IPV. This year the IPVAP DVAM theme is, “Building Relationship Health and Safety for Life,” which aims to increase awareness of the importance of healthy and safe relationships

across the lifespan. The IPVAP is committed to prevention and promotion of healthy relationship skills which is key to building relationship wellness and is an important protective factor

for everyone’s physical and mental health. Below are some key indicators of relationship health for consideration that may help guide you, your partners, and VA staff. HEALTHY * Physical

safety * Individual autonomy * Sexual respectfulness * Making shared decisions * Respectful listening * Respectful humor UNHEALTHY * Lack of trust and communication * Not being considerate

of a partner’s feelings * Ignoring boundaries * Unequal access to income, employment, or resources * Insults and demeaning comments * Isolation from family and friends * Preventing

independent decision making  * Intimidation through looks or actions KEY INDICATORS OF RELATIONSHIP HEALTH: It is a lifelong journey to build and enhance healthy intimate relationships. To

cultivate healthy relationships, unhealthy behaviors must be addressed, and early intervention is vital. For those impacted by IPV, healing and growth are crucial to recovery. There are

experienced VA providers available to counsel Veterans and their partners on developing and maintaining healthy relationships. The VA supports relationship health and safety and is a

confidential place to discuss questions, concerns or to seek assistance. In recognition of DVAM National Wear Purple Day please show your support October 20, 2022 and wear purple to help

raise awareness of IPV. Additionally, please take the time to learn about available resources, increase awareness of healthy and safe relationships and refer Veterans, their partners and VA

staff to the IPVAP for services. It is imperative as a community to prevent and disrupt IPV. Together we can make a difference.