AVONDALE, Ariz., November 3, 2017 (Newswire.com) - Domestic violence is not an easy subject to discuss. No matter the abuse, whether it be dating violence, relationship violence, or partner violence, the warning signs and red flags are still the same.
Phoenix resident Tamica Goree has been helping domestic violence victims for the past 3 years. While the volunteer work she has provided has gone a long way, she is now devoting more time to educating those in noticing warning signs with friends and family who might be victims of domestic violence.
"In any situation or discussion, I stress these words: 'No matter what you decide to do. I will support you, and I will be here for you whenever you need me,"
Tamica Goree
"There are many instances where family or friends could have stepped in and helped stop the violence if they had noticed the warning signs," Goree says. "It's not their fault because sometimes the victim and the abuser hide what is really going on."
The statistics and facts are overwhelming when it comes to domestic violence. And while it's a hard topic, it's important to know that domestic violence happens more than people think.
Tamica Goree provides these statistics:
- 74% of people in the United States personally know someone who is or has been a victim of domestic violence.
- 30% of couples struggle with domestic violence in some sort of way.
- One-in-four women experience domestic violence in their lifetime.
"The numbers do not lie," Goree says. "Doing whatever you can to help a person get out of an abusive relationship is very important, and the signs should not be ignored."
"The important thing to know is that you're not alone," says Tamica Goree. "There are plenty of professionals in the Phoenix area that can help you. It's their job to give advice and provide the necessary resources to help you approach the loved one, but also help them when they want the help."
Goree adds it takes on average, seven to 13 attempts at leaving before a domestic violence victim is able to break free and move on from an abusive relationship.
"Leaving can be the most dangerous time in an abusive relationship," explains Goree. "Leaving takes thoughtful planning, requires established long-term support, and needs to be done safely."
This process is even more heightened when children are involved. When having that first conversation with a loved one about the abuse, it might not lead to change. But because the person has planted a seed that they deserve better, the abused person now knows she has help on her side no matter what happens.
"It's so important that you manage your expectations about the impact of your support," Goree adds. "You cannot save anyone, but you can be there for him, unconditionally." Many loved ones have the well-intentions when trying to help an abused person, but when you try to solve their problems for them, you dis-empower them. Goree says the time can be a scary and challenging experience. She mentions that you can get support for yourself from the local domestic violence agency.
"In any situation or discussion, I stress these words: 'No matter what you decide to do. I will support you, and I will be here for you whenever you need me," Goree says. "I cannot stress enough letting the victim know you are there for them, but also respecting their space and time."
Tamica Goree has helped many people start the conversation with a loved one about domestic violence. These domestic violence victims should know they are not alone. She is there for them all around the greater Phoenix area.
Source: Web Presence, LLC
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