Welcome to the domestic violence series. I created this series to help spread awareness about this subject, BECAUSE as a martial artist, you shouldn’t just be thinking about defending yourself, but about defending others as well.

Especially those who can’t defend themselves.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE is a particularly EVIL form of abuse because the perpetrators not only target the weakest in our society, but it also trains the instinct to protect oneself out of those people, leaving them vulnerable and traumatized. This cycle of violence perpetuates a culture of fear, where victims often feel trapped and powerless to escape their abusers. The profound psychological impact can diminish their self-worth, making it increasingly difficult to seek help. Moreover, domestic violence affects not just the individuals directly involved but also ripples through families and communities, creating an environment where silence prevails and the cycle is more likely to continue. Raising awareness and fostering open dialogues about this issue are crucial steps toward breaking these chains and supporting survivors in their journey towards healing and empowerment.

In this installment, I want to revisit something I posted about before, about a signal victims are using she used to alert people if they are in trouble.

I was watching this video today, and the lead actress here used this signal to alert her rescuer.

This is the signal:

As I “typed” before, although I’m increasingly concerned that this signal may be a bit less effective now, since a potential abuser might see this video or others like it and recognize the signal, I believe it’s worth posting; after all, there is a chance that a potential victim out there may see this, and it may help them in ways we cannot fully predict.

By shedding light on these important signals, we can create a more informed community that recognizes the nuances of abusive behavior. This, in turn, could empower those who feel trapped or unsure about their circumstances to seek help. Ultimately, while the risk of exposure exists, the potential benefit of reaching someone who truly needs guidance far outweighs the drawbacks of sharing this crucial message. It is essential that we remain vigilant and proactive in spreading awareness, as it could save a life or change a situation dramatically for someone who feels alone in their struggle.

Well, that’s it for this post. Remember,

Whomever you are, wherever you are, if you’re going through domestic violence, you are not alone, and

HELP IS AVAILABLE.

Please click HERE, and speak with someone today.