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Domestic violence: prevent and inform

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kali L. Gradishar
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  October is marked as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The first of its kind was held in 1987 with the intention of raising awareness of family abuse.

Still a nationally recognized month of observance, Domestic Violence Awareness Month continues to bring light to these tragic issues that can be found in all reaches of society.

"If people are not aware of the impact of domestic violence, people may continue to harm their significant others or their children," said Stephen Pitters, Family Advocacy outreach manager. "Domestic Violence Awareness Month provides individuals with information on positive behaviors and ways to overcome conflict in day-to-day life."

The base Family Advocacy office is just as keen, if not more so, on prevention as they are on treatment.

In line with prevention. people are encouraged to "utilize the available resources now to overcome conflict. Whether the problems are work related, home related, finance related, not having the ability to adjust, feeling socially isolated, or anything else" there is a resource or program available for assistance, said Mr. Pitters.

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Family Advocacy office has and continues to spread the word on domestic violence.

Information was posted at the 92nd Medical Group clinic, base Chapel, Fairchild Inn and Michael Anderson Elementary School. An art gallery featuring images of individuals who may be exposed domestic violence was posted in various locations on base, and the First Term Airmen Center Airmen were briefed on stress management.

For those who are unsure of where to turn if in situations of domestic abuse, the base has a variety of programs that can provide assistance to people from all walks of life.

"We have an enormous amount of resources: stress management, anger management, a variety of parenting programs including breast feeding class, Boot Camp for New Dads and parenting counseling, couples counseling, individual counseling, and support groups," Mr. Pitters noted.

'Utilization of resources allows people to function to meet the mission requirement," he said.

For more information on Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Family Advocacy services call 247-2687.