Education seen as key to preventing domestic violence

PEORIA ( 25News Now ) - Peoria's Center for Prevention of Abuse is marking Domestic Violence Awareness Month by reminding people how to identify signs of domestic troubles and of the resources available to them.

One-in-three women and one-in-four men will experience abuse by an intimate partner during their lifetime. Every 15 seconds, a person is a victim of domestic abuse.

The center's CEO Carol Merna said during the COVID-19 pandemic, domestic violence cases increased. She said it's something they continue to see today.

In fact, one in-three women and one-in-four men will experience abuse by an intimate partner during their lifetime. Every 15 seconds, a person is a victim of domestic abuse.

Merna said people should be aware of signs that abuse is happening. It can be emotional, physical, or sexual, and signs can show up as behavior changes, disrupted sleep, and physical harm to the body.

She said leaving is the most dangerous time in an abusive relationship, so finding resources is critical to help a victim make a safety plan.

"We want people to stay safe. We don't want anyone to put themselves in harm's way," Merna said. 'If you're able to talk to someone that you believe is a victim, confidentially and privately, then say 'I care about you and I'm here for you.'"

Merna said the center provided prevention education to more than 41,000 students in the Tri-County area last year, which she is key to preventing domestic violence from happening in the first place.

"When we can provide an age-appropriate, evidence-based, and comprehensive lesson about how to have healthy relationships and to stay safe, we're all going to be better off," Merna said. "We're going to see those numbers of domestic violence and other forms of abuse shrink."

The center offers resources like shelter for victims, counselors, and therapists. The organization will also help take care of a pet if a victim leaves an abusive situation and needs help with care.

All services are free, and no one is turned away.

The crisis hotline is 1-800-559-SAFE (7233). Visit the center's website for more information on resources.