Domestic Violence Help Is Available

Founded in 1989, The Domestic Violence Round Table Inc. was created through a coordinated effort between Georgia Legal Services and community members whose voices demanded action to keep people safe in their homes.

Over the years, the organization has been dedicated to educating the community, providing resources, and working toward eliminating domestic violence.

Domestic violence is defined as a pattern of abusive behavior where one party seeks control over another, that can be between two romantic partners or other people who live in the same household including siblings.

This abuse goes beyond physical violence, including tactics such as intimidation, sexual abuse, emotional manipulation, isolation, and even child abuse.

A study conducted by the National Domestic Violence Hotline reveals that one in four women (24.3 percent) and one in seven men (13.8 percent) aged 18 and older in the U.S. have experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner during their lifetime.

According to Annie Davis, the chairperson for the education and outreach team for The Domestic Violence Round Table, women from the ages of 19 to 23 are particularly vulnerable.

Still, domestic violence affects all genders, all ages, and can even affect children.

For those in need, resources are available. In Columbus, Hope Harbour provides shelter and support for individuals escaping abusive relationships. They can be reached at (706) 324-3850, and more information is available on their website [hopeharbour. org](https://www.hopeharbour.org).

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available at 1-800-33-HAVEN.