October 2025

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH is just ending, but the recognition of the impact of domestic violence continues to resonate. 

 

Recently reports noted that the number of Iowa deaths due to domestic violence has jumped 52% between 2021 and 2024, according to the Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Overwhelmingly, these deaths were females (64%), perpetrated by a family member or current partner (70%), and caused by guns (66%). 

 

What is considered domestic violence can vary – from physical abuse, emotional or psychological abuse, financial abuse, and technological abuse (mobile devices, tracking applications, etc.). All involve a pattern of controlling, coercive behavior over a victim. 

 

What is referred to as “gender-based” violence may involve the same tactics, as well as human trafficking, online harassment and abuse, and child sexual abuse. Whatever its form, violence is about power and control; it can and will have lasting effects. 

At Chrysalis, we’ve long understood that children exposed to violence – in the home; on television, video, computer games, and internet; or movies that show graphic acts of violence – can be affected as much as if they experienced the violence themselves. They may become fearful, have trouble sleeping or concentrating in school. They may exhibit vague symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches. Some children learn to respond to conflicts in a violent manner or often become desensitized to the pain and distress of others. 

 

By the time children reach middle school, they may have watched as many as 8,000 murders and 100,000 other acts of virtual violence through the media. 

 

As parents and caregivers, it’s important to do everything you can to help children feel safe. Be available to ensure they are adequately supervised. Encourage them to express any fears and share ways you will make sure they are protected. Discuss potentially dangerous situations that may occur and how they can avoid them. 

Do not pressure a victim to leave an abusive relationship. There are many reasons they may choose to stay. Experts note that the time surrounding leaving an abuser is the most dangerous time for a victim, and the risk of lethality is dramatically increased if the abuser feels they are losing control over the victim. 


One of the most immediate ways you can support a person experiencing domestic violence is to take time to listen to them and believe what they say. By sharing that you care about them and their safety, and that the abuse is not their fault, you can help them by asking how they want to be helped – they know themselves best. 

Here you will find a few resources we think are meaningful this month!

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