Domestic Violence Awareness resources aid victims Published Oct. 6, 2015 By Senior Airman Aja Heiden 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. -- Every minute, there are approximately 20 people who suffer through domestic violence in the United States. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time when the nation focuses on the victims of violence and how to help them. Domestic violence entails verbal, emotional, physical and sexual abuse used to gain or maintain control over the victim. "It comes in many different forms such as isolation, threats and intimidation," said Senior Master Sgt. Michael P. Sklarsky, the 482nd Force Support Squadron first sergeant. It can happen to anyone from lowest ranking enlisted member to the highest ranking officer, said Mary Arnold, the 482nd Fighter Wing director of psychological health. Many times, a victim will stay with their abuser because they fear the repercussions of a failed escape. "It can be dangerous to leave," said Arnold. "If the abuser finds out the victim is leaving, it can cause an increase in violence to maintain control." Victims need to plan their escape if they want to leave their partner, said Sklarsky. Victims should decide where to go, like a friend or relative's home, hotel or a shelter. "Pack a bag and store it at work or anywhere you can access it easily," said Arnold. "Pack your birth certificate, driver's license, social security card, clothing, medication and other necessities." One resource for victims of domestic violence who are seeking help is the Family Advocacy Program that was designed to intervene in domestic abuse cases to provide treatment and support for Airmen and spouses. This program is not designed to punish, although any evidence gathered from their investigation may be used in military justice proceedings. In the Advocacy Program, caseworkers assess the victim's safety, investigate the incident and develop a safety plan. They also interview the alleged abuser and inform them of their rights. Signs to look for in domestic abuse include: changes in behavior, bruises, frequently calling in sick, wearing long sleeves in hot weather and anxiety or fear of their significant other. "Airmen should ask questions, show concern and know their wingmen," said Arnold. "If they suspect there is a problem they should escort them to the Chaplin, a family advocacy representative or psychological health advocate." Seeking help for the victim is an import step in keeping them safe, but do not confront the abuser as this could put you and the victim in hams way, according to Arnold. "Seek help! You don't have to go through this." For more information or assistance call the national hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or the Mental Health Office at 786-415-8888.