October was first declared as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) by Congress in 1989. Since then, October has been a time to acknowledge domestic violence survivors and be a voice for its victims. Organizations and individuals unite across the country for a national effort to uplift the needs, voices, and experiences of survivors.
Domestic violence is prevalent in every community, and affects all people regardless of age, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, or nationality. Physical violence is often accompanied by emotionally abusive and controlling behavior as part of a much larger, systematic pattern of dominance and control. Domestic violence can result in physical injury, psychological trauma, and even death. The devastating consequences of domestic violence can cross generations and last a lifetime.
The Statistics are Staggering
Although there has been substantial progress in reducing domestic violence, an average of 20 people are physically abused by intimate partners every minute. This equates to more than 10 million abuse victims annually. 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have been physically abused by an intimate partner, and 1 in 5 women and 1 in 7 men have been severely physically abused by an intimate partner. Millions of Americans live in daily, silent fear within their own homes.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
- 34% of women and 17% of men in the U.S. have reported contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by a partner.
- 30.2% of women and 22.3% of men in the U.S. have reported psychological aggression by a partner.
These rates are often higher – and funding and support are often scarce – for marginalized victims, including victims of color, victims in the LGBTQ+ community, victims with disabilities, and immigrant victims. Domestic violence is not a rare or private problem; it is an epidemic. Abuse impacts victims from all walks of life, devastates families and communities, and creates trauma that can last for generations.
In addition, every year millions of children are exposed to domestic violence. Domestic violence incidents affect every person within a home and can have long-lasting negative effects on children’s emotional well-being, and social and academic functioning.
With Survivors, Always
Last year, the Domestic Violence Awareness Project developed the theme With Survivors, Always for Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) 2025. Together, everyone explored what it means to be in partnership with survivors toward safety, support, and solidarity.
For DVAM 2026, the project is building on that momentum, with a deepened focus on action. Across the United States, violence is being minimized, cuts to the services families rely upon, and increased barriers to safety for survivors and their children. Survivors deserve action.
This year, the DVAP invites you to join them as they move from awareness to action in order to meet this current moment. Now more than ever, we must stand with survivors, always.
The Domestic Violence Hotline is Here for You. “We are here to serve all those impacted by relationship abuse 24/7 confidentially. If you are unable to wait safely or aren’t ready to call, chat or text — you can search our Directory of Local Providers section anytime for resources and support in your area.”
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