“The ‘Panic Industry’ Is Booming” — news of escape routes, a place for weapons and an existence that sounds like it’s straight out of a doomsday movie is a theme we are seeing far too often in today’s media. International news seems out of our hands, yet all we know for sure is things cost more. We are regularly bombarded with chaotic, senseless scenes of dehumanization causing intense feelings of frustration and helplessness. If you’re anything like me you scroll on in horror thinking well “what can I reallydo?” This lingering “fight or flight” feeling is all too familiar for survivors of domestic violence.
Domestic violence remains a hidden crisis in our communities—most of us know someone, a friend, a neighbor, or even someone within our own families, who is experiencing domestic violence. Despite its prevalence, the topic remains shrouded in stigma, isolation, and silence. By harnessing the power of shared data, accurate information, and best practices, we can create more informed local networks to not only understand the severity of domestic violence but are also empower ourselves to support those affected.
Domestic violence is not a distant statistic but a present danger that we can do something about. If nearly half of all women and many men experience domestic violence, we can and should discuss DV like the public health problem it is. Abuse only grows stronger as long as it’s hidden in the darkness of inexplicable shame, guilt and embarrassment. Even underreported the data is far too strong– reports have stated “virtually all healthcare professionals will at some point evaluate or treat a patient who is a victim of domestic or family violence”.
In my home state of California, domestic violence is estimated to cost $73.7 billion dollars for survivors, communities, and taxpayers. While I whole-heartedly encourage that we continue to advocate and fight to ensure resources are allocated to a safety net with holistic wraparound services, from emergency cash aid to mental health support and long term, affordable housing– the future for these services does not look promising. Just like we need to speak out about dehumanizing government policies, we need to talk about domestic violence out loud.
Beyond numbers and charts, there is a human element that demands our attention. Survivors need more than just acknowledgement—we need tangible support from those around us. Not just as a survivor myself, I believe these unprecedented times call for us all to seek additional support and show up for one another. The sooner a survivor steps away from an abusive situation, the better their chances of healing and rebuilding their lives. Moreover, a well-informed community can offer both emotional and practical support, acting as an informal yet powerful network that bridges the gap between crisis and recovery.
This approach also challenges the stigma that has long been attached to victims of domestic violence. When we openly discuss the data and share stories of resilience, we invite empathy and understanding into the conversation. The normalization of these discussions in public forums can lead to a broader cultural shift. Stigma, after all, thrives in secrecy. By bringing these issues into the light, we not only validate the experiences of survivors but also dismantle the social and psychological barriers that keep many from seeking help.
The fight against domestic violence is not solely the responsibility of law enforcement, advocacy groups and social service agencies—it is a communal battle. Ordinary people like you and I can create safe spaces for open dialogue, have those uncomfortable conversations and support existing efforts to de-stigmatize the experience of survivors. By embracing a data-driven approach to awareness and support, we pave the way for communities that are not only informed but also deeply compassionate. In doing so, we can build a society where every survivor feels seen, supported, and safe enough to take the courageous step toward a safer future.