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Category: DVAM

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DVAM

Understanding and Creating a Safety Plan: A Guide for Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a crucial time to share knowledge, spread awareness, and provide essential resources to those in need. One such crucial resource is a Safety Plan.

A Safety Plan is a personalized, practical plan that includes ways to remain safe while in a relationship, planning to leave, or after you leave. Safety planning involves how to cope with emotions, tell friends and family about the abuse, take legal action, and more.

Below is an outline of what a Safety Plan is, how to create one, how to keep it private, and what to do if you need help.
What is a Safety Plan?
A Safety Plan is a comprehensive and detailed plan designed to prioritize your safety and the safety of your children and pets in situations of domestic abuse. It’s crucial for victims of domestic violence, providing them with structured guidance and a set of actionable steps that enhance their security in various situations.

Creating a Safety Plan
While You’re in the Relationship:

  • Identify Safe Areas in the Home: Know where to go if an argument occurs. Avoid small, enclosed spaces or rooms with weapons.
  • Develop a Code Word or Signal: Establish a word, phrase, or signal you can use with friends, family, or coworkers to indicate that you are in danger and need help.
  • Keep Essential Items Accessible: Have important items and documents readily available, so you can leave quickly.

When You’re Preparing to Leave:

  •  Choose the Right Time: Plan to leave at a time when your abuser is least likely to be around.
  • Pack a Bag: Have a bag packed with necessary items (clothing, medications, etc.) and keep it in a safe, easily accessible place.
  • Pack important documents- like Driver’s License, Social Security Card (for you and all your children), birth certificates, Passports, Immigration Documents, etc
  • Secure Funds: Save money or make arrangements for finances.
  • Know Where to Go: Plan where you will go and how you will get there. Avoid places where the abuser might find you.

After Leaving the Abuser:

  • Change Locks: If you’re staying in your home, change the locks as soon as possible.
  • Obtain a Protective Order: If necessary, get a protective order and keep it on you at all times.
  • Change Routines: Alter your daily routines to avoid encountering the abuser.

Keeping Your Safety Plan Private

  • Use a Safe Device: When researching or creating your safety plan, use a computer or phone that the abuser does not have access to.
  • When you get a new cellphone do not download anything from the Cloud. Tracking apps could be in your cloud account.
  • Protect Your Online Information: Change passwords and enhance online security.
  • Inform Trusted Friends or Family: Let them know about your safety plan so they can also remain vigilant.

Seeking Help

Don’t hesitate to reach out for help:

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline (US): Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org.
  • Local Shelters and Organizations: Find local resources that can provide assistance.
  • Law Enforcement: In an emergency, call 911 or your local authorities.

Remember, you are not alone, and creating a Safety Plan is a significant step towards ensuring your safety and wellbeing. Utilize the resources available and prioritize your security and peace of mind this Domestic Violence Awareness Month and beyond. Your life matters, and taking action to protect it is not just your right, but a crucial step towards a future free from abuse.

If you or someone you know is in danger, call the National Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE.
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Community Community Share DVAM

The Houston Police Department gives a HUGE Shout-out of appreciation to all our partners with Houston Area Women’s Center

The Houston Police Department (HPD) is a proud and long-standing partner with the Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC). HAWC is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing critical resources for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Trained advocates are available on their 24-Hour Hotline to provide survivors with information and resources to assess their danger, make a safety plan, find shelter, and access services such as counseling and legal help.

Coordinated responses have been recognized as a best practice in reducing domestic violence since the Violence Against Women Act was enacted over 20 years ago. This is particularly effective in our community when close-knit relationships develop and highly engaged domestic violence partners come together for collaborative efforts. Over the years, current and newly assigned investigators and supervisors attended the tours at the HAWC. The HAWC tours are conducted as part of our investigative training requirement for investigators and supervisors as it is beneficial to us to be able to share resource information with the survivors. On the HAWC tours, investigators meet with HAWC professionals and get to know each other by asking questions and sharing information on how to enhance supporting survivors. When Hurricane Harvey and the pandemic hit the Houston and surrounding areas, our strong relationships and trust allowed us all to streamline efforts to support and protect survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. When face-to-face communication was not an option, we instantly continued communicating through Zoom meetings, electronic mail, and phone calls. We are excited to resume our in-person HAWC tours again for information-sharing regarding support and resources for survivors and their families. Recently, we had thirty new investigators and supervisors added to our Family Violence Unit and Adult Sex Crimes Unit who toured HAWC. Our investigators and supervisors are passionate about ending the epidemic of domestic violence and sexual assault. Each investigator and supervisor enhanced their individual knowledge regarding resources and how best to support the recovery after such a violent crime. A huge shout out to Deputy CEO Sonia Corrales and Thank You for always welcoming and guiding us through the HAWC and how survivors navigate the processes and take steps to recover from the violence. Also, we were joined by Director of Residential Services Pamela Ellis, Manager of Legal Service Jacklyn Guerra and Director of Violence Prevention and Training Michelle Sacks who are all hardworking dedicated professionals. We cannot express enough gratitude for all your continuous hard work that you put into everything you do for survivors! We are so grateful to have you as partners over the many years and thank you for all the hard work you are doing each day providing critical resources to the survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault!

About the Author

Kira Webster, Lieutenant at the Houston Police Department

Major Assault & Family Violence Division

Categories
DVAM Voices Of Freedom

Silencing The Shame and Living in Agape: Your Journey Towards Healing

As we step into October, a month dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence, I want to address a crucial and often overlooked issue that affects countless lives. Why? Because I firmly believe that it’s time for us to collectively confront the pervasive yet often silenced impact of domestic violence.

Personal journeys through domestic violence can often feel profoundly isolating. I know this from my own experience. It was a lonely path until I discovered a community of support. Sadly, many of my loved ones, including church family members, didn’t know how to extend their support. That’s why I’m on a mission to give voice to this topic, recognizing that many women are affected by shame.

If you’ve made it to this paragraph, this topic must interest you. Let’s go deeper. Shame is a distorted identity we place on ourselves when we experience the perception of having done something dishonorable, immoral, or improper. Sometimes, we feel worthless, helpless, powerless, nameless, and hopeless. Seeing ourselves as “less” than is often connected to childhood trauma.

But here’s the profound truth: When we let go of our shame, we can feel more at peace, be happier with who we are, and experience true healing. When we embrace every facet of who we are, we tap into the transformative power of self-love.

Healing is closer than you think. You deserve to live in AGAPE. Healing can start today with:

  • Acceptance and Affirmations: Begin your healing journey by accepting that healing takes time and acknowledging your worth. Affirm yourself with positive self-talk, recognizing that you deserve love and support. Focus on the words “I am”! There is power in affirming your greatness.
  • Guidance from Professionals: Seek advice from trained therapists or counselors who can offer professional support, strategies, and confidential space to help you gain new tools to place in your tool kit for healing. The Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council can be a resource for you. This community helped me in my healing journey.
  • Advocacy for Yourself: Learn what your rights are. Trust me, when you go through the process of self-advocacy, you will, in turn, be a resource for someone else. Advocacy raises your overall level of self-awareness and consciousness.
  • Pursuing Knowledge: Expand your knowledge about domestic violence, its psychological effects, and the resources available for survivors. Learning more about domestic violence helped me understand what my shame was rooted in.
  • Establishing Healthy Boundaries: Recognize the importance of setting and enforcing healthy boundaries to protect your emotional, mental, and physical well-being. NO. is a complete sentence.

Remember, you are not alone, you can silence the shame. We are ready to support you on your path to living a life free from shame.

If you’d like to learn more information about the Silencing the Shame series, please email our Voices of Freedom Ambassador, Lereca Monik. You can also check our weekly newsletter for her series announcements or check her Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/lereca.monik

If you or someone you know is in danger, call the National Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE.

About the Author

Leraca Monik is one of HCDVCC’s Voice of Freedom Ambassadors.

Categories
DVAM

The Importance Of Domestic Violence Awareness Month

person holding a sign "You're not alone!" with the title of the blog in the image "The Importance Of Domestic Violence Awareness Month" in the image.
person holding a sign "You're not alone!" with the title of the blog in the image "The Importance Of Domestic Violence Awareness Month" in the image.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) is observed every October in the United States. It is a month dedicated to raising awareness about the issues of domestic violence, honoring those who have died, supporting survivors, and mobilizing communities to take action to prevent this devastating crime. The month-long observance plays a crucial role in shedding light on an issue that is often cloaked in silence, and in empowering victims to find safety and healing. While we recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we know every day is a battlefield for domestic violence victims, their families, their friends, and our community.

Statistics Highlight the Urgency of the Issue

Domestic violence is a pervasive and deadly issue. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. Moreover, on a typical day, domestic violence hotlines across the country receive over 20,000 calls, highlighting the urgency and prevalence of the issue.

The Impact of Domestic Violence

The impact of domestic violence extends beyond the physical harm inflicted on victims. It also encompasses emotional, psychological, and financial abuse, all of which can have long-term detrimental effects on victims and their children. The exposure to domestic violence can contribute to a range of emotional and psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Children who witness domestic violence are more likely to continue the cycle, either as perpetrators or victims in their adult lives.

Supporting Victims and Preventing Violence

Raising awareness about domestic violence is crucial in supporting survivors and preventing further violence. Domestic Violence Awareness Month provides a platform for survivors to share their stories, for communities to learn about the signs of abuse, and for organizations and individuals to share resources and information.

Providing Help Information

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, it’s vital to seek help immediately. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), providing confidential assistance and connecting callers with local resources.

How Others Can Help

Everyone has a role to play in ending domestic violence:

  • Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the signs of domestic violence and share this information with friends, family, and colleagues.
  • Listen and Believe: If someone discloses that they are experiencing abuse, listen to them, believe their story, and provide non-judgmental support.
  • Support Local Organizations: Donate your time or resources to local organizations working to support survivors and prevent domestic violence.
  • Advocate for Policies: Advocate for policies at local, state, and federal levels that support survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a critical time for communities to come together to support survivors, remember those who have lost their lives, and work collaboratively to end domestic violence. By raising awareness, providing resources, and fostering a culture of support and accountability, it’s possible to make significant strides towards ending domestic violence for good.

If you or someone you know is in danger, call the National Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE.
Categories
Community DVAM Op-eds

The Importance of Community and the Power of Friendships

Friendship and Community

In the spirit of National Friendship Day on August 6th, we are reminded of the significance of community and the invaluable friendships that strengthen the bonds within it. As a nonprofit organization deeply rooted in our community, we cherish the relationships we have cultivated with our community partners. These partnerships not only enhance our ability to make a positive impact but also serve as a testament to the remarkable parallels between communities and friends. Let us explore the profound connection between community and friendship and why they both play vital roles in our lives. Communities and friendships are built on a foundation of trust, support, and shared values. Just as friendships thrive on mutual respect and understanding, communities thrive when individuals come together with a common purpose, supporting, and uplifting one another. Both friendships and communities provide a sense of belonging, creating spaces where individuals can be themselves and find solace in the support of others.

Communities, much like friendships, possess an incredible power to bring about positive change. When people unite for a common cause, the collective impact becomes greater than the sum of individual efforts. In a community, diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences converge to tackle challenges, create opportunities, and foster growth. By harnessing the power of community, we can achieve remarkable feats and make a lasting difference.

Friends are often there for us during life’s highs and lows, providing a shoulder to lean on and celebrating our successes. Similarly, communities serve as support systems that lend a helping hand in times of need and offer collective celebrations during moments of triumph. Whether it is providing aid during crises, organizing events that promote unity, or offering resources to those less fortunate, communities act as a network of caring individuals, extending the warmth and compassion of friendship to those within their reach.

True friends motivate us to become the best versions of ourselves, supporting our dreams and pushing us to exceed the limits we place on ourselves. Communities operate in a similar way, offering opportunities for personal and collective growth. Through community engagement, we learn from one another, share knowledge and expertise, and empower each other to develop skills that contribute to the betterment of the whole. In this way, communities foster an environment of continuous learning and inspiration, much like the most nurturing friendships.

During challenging times, the presence of friends can provide immense comfort and resilience. In the same manner, communities act as a source of strength and support when faced with adversity. Whether it is rallying together to overcome a crisis or lending a listening ear during personal struggles, communities and friendships alike promote mental, emotional, and social well-being. Knowing that we have a network of friends within our community provides a sense of security and stability that contributes to our overall happiness and resilience.

As we celebrate National Friendship Day, let us acknowledge the profound connection between community and friendship. Both serve as cornerstones in our lives, enriching our experiences, and propelling us towards positive change. Let us continue to foster strong bonds within our community, embracing the shared values, support, and growth that come with it. Together, as friends within our communities, we can build a brighter future and create a world where friendship and community intertwine to uplift us all.

About the Author

Rebecca Councill, Social media, Manager of Operations and Communications

Manager of Communications and Operations of HCDVCC,

Rebecca Councill

Categories
DVAM neurofeedback Op-eds TBI

Why Neurofeedback

The Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council consistently seeks to identify the gaps that create barriers for survivors to have access to safety and services, hold those who do harm accountable and prevent homicides related to domestic violence.

HCDVCC is on the cusp of establishing innovative programming, specific to neurofeedback therapy, to respond to IPV survivors unique needs and concerns and will be introducing a new Neurofeedback pilot program to address the affects of domestic violence on the survivor related to overall emotional wellness.

Why Neurofeedback?
According to the research by Dr. Huda “Shay” Shaikh, the volatile nature of intimate partner violence (IPV) can make survivors vulnerable to experiencing PTSD symptoms. The prevalence of PTSD symptoms among survivors of IPV is becoming a vast area of interest in the mental health field. Regarding the dynamics of IPV, researchers have asserted that IPV survivors are at a higher risk for PTSD and other mental health concerns such as depression. Given each IPV survivors needs, and concerns tend to be unique, alternative modalities in conjunction with trauma-focused therapeutic modalities are being utilized to respond to symptom reduction and care.

Neurofeedback is defined as a noninvasive, neurocognitive intervention that targets brain wave activity and focuses on training the brain to work towards self-regulation (Nooner et al., 2017). Alternative therapeutic modalities, such as NFB, are presently being introduced to special populations such as veterans across the United States by organizations such as Team Semper Fi and The Lone Survivor Foundation in response to traumatic brain injury (TBI) and PTSD symptoms. NFB therapy aims to train the brainwave patterns for the brain to work towards self-regulation (Nooner et al., 2017). Quantitative electroencephalogram (qEEG) guided NFB, otherwise known as brain mapping guided NFB, is the advised path for NFB therapy given its ability to offer a more personalized treatment plan (Wigton & Krigbaum, 2019).

Brain mapping is a process that captures the unique brainwave pattern of an individual undergoing the qEEG. Given that no two individuals will have the same brainwaves, a qEEG provides an exclusive look at an individual’s brain, as unique as their fingerprint. Based on the qEEG recording of the individual’s brainwaves, the clinician develops a treatment plan for that individual. Once the treatment plan is developed, the individual initiates NFB sessions based on the protocols detailed in their individualized treatment plan. Therefore, qEEG-guided NFB allows clinician to create a treatment plan specialized for that individual and their specific brain wave Patterns (Brown et al., 2019). While NFB has been utilized as an intervention for various disorders for four decades, its solidification as an evidence-based therapy for PTSD has yet to be established. However, research has been conducted supporting its helpfulness in mitigating PTSD symptoms. Utilizing NFB therapy to relieve PTSD symptoms is a growing scholarly field.

Dr. Huda “Shay” Shaikh is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, National Certified Counselor, Board Certified Neurofeedback Clinician, and Board Approved Neurofeedback Mentor. She graduated with a B.S. in Psychology from The University of Houston and earned a Master of Arts in Counseling from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Shay completed her doctoral program in Counselor Education and Supervision in September 2022. Her dissertation was focused on comparing the modalities, EMDR and NFB, in response to intimate partner violence survivor PTSD treatment. Given her passion for trauma work, in addition to being a Neurofeedback clinician, Shay is trained in EMDR therapy, is a CPT provider, trained in providing TF-CBT and well versed in play therapy strategies.

Having a passion for trauma and program management, Shay has worked with a diverse set of populations providing trauma therapy and neurofeedback therapy. Throughout her career, she has been instrumental in building trauma focused programs at different agencies. With a passion for working with combat veterans, Shay has also been a contracted Neurofeedback clinician with the Lone Survivor Foundation to serve those that served our nation. Formerly, with Region 4 Education Service Center, Shay led a trauma team in the Santa Fe District to implement systems and provide trauma-wellness counseling services to students and staff in the district in response to the May 18th mass violence tragedy at Santa Fe High School. Upon the completion of the trauma-focused project with Region 4, Shay worked with the Fort Bend County Women’s Center as their Neurofeedback Supervisor and Counselor to provide mental health services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Presently, she works with the Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council (HCDVCC) as their Neurofeedback Program Manager/Clinician. Her main responsibility is to establish the neurofeedback therapy program in response to IPV survivor care.

About the Author

Neurofeedback Program Manager

Dr. Huda “Shay” Shaikh

Categories
DVAM Mental Health Awareness Month PTSD Awareness Month PTSD Awareness Month Blog Header

Understanding the Link Between Domestic Violence Trauma and PTSD: Self-Care Tips for Healing

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects millions of individuals worldwide, leaving long-lasting physical, emotional, and psychological scars. Among the various consequences survivors may face, one often overlooked but significant outcome is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This article aims to shed light on the relationship between domestic violence trauma (DV) and PTSD, exploring its impact and providing practical self-care tips to support survivors on their healing journey.

There is a complex connection between DV and PTSD. Domestic violence encompasses a range of abusive behaviors that one person uses to exert power and control over another in an intimate relationship. These traumatic experiences can deeply affect survivors, leading to the development of PTSD. The connection between DV and PTSD lies in the enduring sense of fear, helplessness, and ongoing exposure to psychological, emotional, and physical harm.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex condition that arises from experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Survivors of domestic violence often exhibit symptoms consistent with PTSD, including:

  • Intrusive Memories: Vivid flashbacks, nightmares, or distressing thoughts that recur unexpectedly, reminding survivors of traumatic experiences.
  • Avoidance and Numbing: A tendency to avoid places, people, or activities that may trigger memories of trauma, coupled with emotional detachment and loss of interest in once-enjoyed activities.
  • Hyperarousal and Hypervigilance: Heightened anxiety, difficulty sleeping, irritability, and an ongoing state of alertness, as if anticipating danger.
  • Negative Cognition and Mood: Persistent negative thoughts, self-blame, guilt, feelings of shame, and a distorted sense of self-worth.

While seeking professional help is crucial for survivors of domestic violence, integrating self-care practices into their healing journey can play a significant role in rebuilding their lives. Here are some self-care tips to consider:

  • Prioritize Safety: Ensure physical and emotional safety by creating a safe environment, developing a safety plan, and establishing a support network of trusted individuals.
  • Seek Professional Support: Connect with mental health professionals specializing in trauma and domestic violence to guide you through the healing process and provide evidence-based therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) or Neurofeedback.
  • Practice Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques: Engage in activities that help you stay present, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or grounding techniques like focusing on the senses or repeating affirmations.
  • Engage in Self-Compassion: Cultivate self-compassion by treating yourself with kindness, acknowledging your strength and resilience, and practicing self-acceptance.
  • Establish Healthy Boundaries: Set clear boundaries in your relationships and learn to say no when necessary. Prioritize your needs and create a sense of empowerment and control over your life.
  • Engage in Supportive Communities: Connect with support groups, online forums, or local organizations that provide a safe space to share experiences, gain support, and build a sense of community with fellow survivors.
  • Engage in Self-Expression: Explore creative outlets such as writing, art, or music to express and process your emotions in a healthy and constructive manner.

The journey of healing from domestic violence trauma and managing PTSD can be arduous, but it is not one survivors must face alone. By understanding the connection between domestic violence trauma and PTSD and implementing self-care practices, survivors can begin reclaiming their lives and nurturing their well-being. It is essential to be patient and compassionate with oneself throughout the process. By prioritizing safety, seeking professional support, practicing mindfulness, establishing healthy boundaries, engaging in supportive communities, and embracing self-expression, survivors can take important steps toward healing and nurturing resilience. Remember, you are not defined by the trauma you have experienced. With time, support, and self-care, it is possible to reclaim your sense of self and move forward on a path of healing, growth, and empowerment.

About the Author

Rebecca Councill, Manager of Communications and Operations

Manager of Communications and Operations of HCDVCC,

Rebecca Councill

Categories
Community Share domesticviolenceshelters DVAM Op-eds Sexual Assault

Houston Area Domestic Violence Providers Study – The Article

Blog Header for article "effects that domestic violence has on survivors’ mental health".

To download a copy of this study, please click the button below.

About the Author

headshot of Dr. Elizabeth Gregory

Professor of English and Director of Women’s Gender & Sexuality Studies

Elizabeth Gregory, Taylor Professor of Gender & Sexuality Studies and Professor of English, directs the WGSS Program and the UH Institute for Research on Women, Gender & Sexuality. She writes on Marianne Moore’s poetry and women’s work and fertility. Read more about her here.