Direct Line

Patricia Chapin, NAS Sigonella Fleet and Family Support Center

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This year, I would like to remind everyone in Sigonella that preventing domestic abuse is a shared community responsibility, and that we are here to support anyone who has been a victim of domestic abuse. Throughout October, the Fleet and Family Support Center will introduce simple but safe and effective ways for family, friends and concerned community members to help individuals who are at risk for domestic abuse during a time of heightened isolation.

Getting help for an abusive relationship is difficult, especially during a global crisis. The public health measures designed to slow coronavirus disease have created conditions that may contribute to domestic abuse. Stay-at-home orders may increase risk factors for victims by keeping them in quarantine with their abuser and possibly cutting them off from friends, relatives and safe havens.

If you are worried about a friend or family member, there are ways to help. If you are experiencing domestic violence, assistance is always available.

Here are some key points for everyone to remember:

• When it comes to domestic abuse, everyone’s situation is different – it can happen to anyone and is not their fault. Whatever the circumstances, a call to your installation’s Family Advocacy Program (FAP) or Military OneSource can link you to resources and support.

• Preventing abuse starts with promoting what safe and healthy relationships look like. Providing ways for individuals to take steps such as setting boundaries and seeking help in stressful times helps establish better parameters for healthy relationships while also raising awareness of available support.

• FAP is committed to supporting service members and their families impacted by domestic abuse through victim advocacy and crisis intervention. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, and you are not sure what to do, make a call to one of the Family Advocacy Counselors on your installation (624-4291/095 56-4291).

• If you are concerned about your safety and need immediate support, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 or a live chat with an advocate at www.thehotline.org.

• If a friend or family member is experiencing domestic abuse, do not pressure them to leave. Instead, tell them you are there for them and that you can help them plan for their safety or seek outside support when they are ready. Ask them how they prefer to stay in touch while you support and believe them.

• In times of increased isolation, make yourself available for scheduled check-ins with loved ones who may feel unsafe at home--whether it be by phone, text or social media--so you will know if they are OK or if you need to call for help.

Your Family Advocacy Program, command, and all agencies of NAS Sigonella are here to support you. If you or someone you know is at risk, reach out to your local Family Advocacy Program (624-4291/095 564291), the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1800-342-9647), or the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (1-800-799-7233).

Learn more:

https://www.militaryonesource.mil/ familyrelationships/relationships/domestic-abusehelp

https://ncadv.org/ https://www.thehotline.org/