Abuse is more common than some people think. Nearly 1 in 4 women (24%) and 1 in 7 men (14%) have experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner at some point in their lifetime. But there are resources to help. If you are, or know someone who is, the victim of intimate partner violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233) or contact your local emergency services at 911.
If the intimate partner violence occurred while you were in the military, can contact your nearest VA facility to speak with the Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Coordinator. Every VA facility has providers knowledgeable about treatment for the aftereffects of MST. Many have specialized outpatient mental health services focusing on sexual trauma.
Each VA Medical Center has a Women Veterans Program Manager who can help coordinate services such as safe housing or shelter. The Social Work Services department or the VA homeless coordinator can also provide housing options, and your VA mental health provider can connect you to parenting, child and family services community resources.
Here are some 24-hour emergency contacts: 9-1-1; National toll-free 24-hour Domestic Violence hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233); http://www.ndvh.org; National Sexual Assault hotline: 1-800-656-4673; http://www.rainn.org
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.