Preventing Violence Against Women and Supporting Survivors
Breaking the Silence
November 25th marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, a sobering reminder that violence against women remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations worldwide. The statistics are staggering and demand our attention: every 10 minutes, a woman is killed by a partner or family member. Globally, almost one in three women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence. These aren't just numbers—they represent real lives, real trauma, and real survivors who deserve comprehensive support and care.
At Resolutions Therapy Practice, we recognize that addressing violence against women requires both prevention efforts and trauma-informed care for survivors. Understanding the scope and nature of this issue is the first step toward creating meaningful change. The reality of violence against women extends far beyond physical abuse. It includes sexual violence, emotional and psychological abuse, economic control, technology-facilitated harassment and stalking. Young women and girls face particular vulnerability, with one in four adolescent girls experiencing abuse by their partners. In conflict and humanitarian crisis situations, the risk intensifies dramatically, with 70% of women experiencing gender-based violence.
The COVID-19 pandemic revealed another troubling dimension—as people spent more time online, technology-facilitated gender-based violence surged. Between 16% and 58% of women globally now experience digital harassment, with Gen Z and Millennials most affected. This includes cyberstalking, non-consensual sharing of intimate images, online harassment, and digital monitoring and control by partners.
The psychological impact of violence is profound and long-lasting.
Survivors often experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and anxiety, complex trauma, difficulty trusting others, disrupted attachment patterns, substance abuse as a coping mechanism, and chronic health problems. These effects don't simply disappear with time—they require specialized, trauma-informed care to heal. Trauma-informed therapy recognizes that survivors of violence need specialized support that prioritizes safety, trust, and empowerment. Our therapists are trained in trauma-informed approaches that help survivors process their experiences, rebuild their sense of safety, develop healthy relationships, address co-occurring mental health issues, and reclaim their lives and identities. We utilize evidence-based treatments specifically effective for trauma, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which helps reprocess traumatic memories; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to address trauma-related thoughts and behaviors; and mindfulness-based approaches to manage anxiety and hypervigilance.
If you're concerned about someone experiencing violence, here's how you can help:
Listen without judgment and believe their experience—many survivors have been disbelieved or blamed. Avoid asking "why didn't you leave?"—leaving abusive relationships is complex and dangerous. Provide information about resources like the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) and local services. Respect their decisions and timeline—they are the expert on their own safety. Offer ongoing support—healing from violence is a journey, not a single event.
If you are experiencing violence, please know that you deserve support and safety:
You are not alone, and what happened is not your fault. Safety planning is crucial—reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline for guidance. You don't have to have all the answers right now—take things one step at a time. Healing is possible—many survivors go on to live fulfilling, empowered lives. Professional support can help you process trauma and develop coping strategies.
Prevention requires all of us to take action.
Challenge harmful attitudes about women and relationships when you encounter them. Teach young people about healthy relationships and consent. Support organizations working to end violence against women. Be an active bystander—intervene safely when you witness concerning behavior. Examine your own beliefs and behaviors related to gender and power.
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign runs from November 25 through December 10 (International Human Rights Day), uniting activists worldwide to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls. This year's theme emphasizes that there is #NoExcuse for violence against women.
We're committed to providing compassionate, specialized care for survivors of violence. Whether you're dealing with recent trauma or the long-term effects of past abuse, our therapists are here to support your healing journey. We offer flexible scheduling, including telehealth options throughout Kentucky, to make accessing care as easy as possible. Breaking the cycle of violence requires both individual healing and collective action. By supporting survivors, challenging harmful beliefs, and demanding systemic change, we can work toward a world where every woman lives free from violence. If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out—help is available, and healing is possible.
Contact Resolutions Therapy Practice for trauma-informed care from compassionate professionals.