Even though October’s Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Awareness Month is ending, the toll of IPV does not. The lessons learned from ACS and other stakeholder resources and discussions should continue so that victims may be supported.
If you have experienced IPV, know someone experiencing it, or recognize it in a patient, it can be challenging to seek help for many reasons. Concerns about safety for self or children, finances, social/family perception, continuing to experience feelings for the partner, and not feeling like this situation can be called IPV are typical experiences and emotions. But ending an abusive relationship does not need to be done alone. You can:
If you are experiencing IPV or know someone who is, consider using these resources for support:
- The National Domestic Violence Hotline – Support is available 24/7. Call 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-799-7233 for TTY. If you cannot speak safely, log onto org or text LOVEIS to 22522.
- An interactive guide to safety planning
- The National Sexual Assault Hotline, 24/7, confidential and free, 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or via chat
- National Parent Helpline, Monday through Friday, 12:00–7:00 pm Central, 1-855-427-2736
- Workplaces Respond – Resources on employees’ rights and how to create a safe environment at the workplace
For more information on ACS IPV resources, visit the ACS Intimate Partner Violence web page.
Upcoming Webinar Talks about Breaking the Cycle of IPV
Surgeons, physicians, and healthcare professionals have the potential to change the course of an individual’s life by effectively identifying people who have sustained IPV and referring them to the appropriate resources.
To provide additional resources and guidance on what to do if you suspect your colleague may be a victim of IPV, the ACS Intimate Partner Violence Task Force will join the Society for Gynecologic Surgeons and American Academy of Ophthalmology in hosting a 1-hour webinar, 9:15-10:15 am CT on Monday, November 6: Break the Cycle Part II - An Intimate Partner Violence Conversation.
This discussion includes how to approach the subject of IPV and what resources are at your disposal in the workplace as an advocate, ally, or victim. Join this live, moderated discussion and Q&A led by Stephanie Bonne, MD, FACS, and featuring D’Andrea Joseph, MD, FACS, FCCM, Carrie Sims, MD, PhD, FACS, and Christine Lovato, MD, FACS, FASMBS.
Register now
