October is Domestic Violence Awareness month, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Service Members, Veterans, and their Families Technical Assistance (SAMHSA’s SMVF TA) Center would like you to join us in holding space to recognize the survivors of domestic violence and help educate and raise awareness of the devastating impact domestic violence has among our service members and Veterans, in particular.
💡 Did You Know?
Veterans are at an increased risk of experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) as opposed to non-Veterans due to environmental, psychological, and social stressors associated with military service. These stressors range from deployment and family separation to mental health disorders and military sexual trauma. Veterans are also at a higher risk of suicidal ideation, which often co-occurs with IPV. Treating mental health conditions related to interpersonal violence can help reduce suicidal ideation and behavior among those who experience and perpetrate violence.
🔗 Veteran IPV Program
The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)’s Strength at Home program is a great example of IPV prevention and suicidal ideation treatment, as it is the only program for Veterans proven to reduce aggression in relationships. Through cognitive behavioral and trauma-informed group therapy, Veterans strengthen their relationships through conflict management and interpersonal skills training. To learn more about this program, please contact your local Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program (IPVAP) Coordinator.
📚 Read and Share: The VA’s Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention’s “From Science to Practice” Web Issues
IPV – A Risk Factor for Suicide Among Veterans
Helping Veterans Who Have Been Exposed to Interpersonal Violence
👓 Looking Ahead
In the coming months, the SMVF TA Center will be hosting a webinar on IPV and gender-based violence with our colleagues at the RAND Corporation. Be on the lookout for announcements and registration links!
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