Domestic Violence Program at GBMC

What is Domestic Violence? 
Domestic violence (DV), also called Intimate Partner Violence, is a pattern of behavior used by an intimate partner in order to gain power and control over the other person. DV can take many forms:

• Physical violence
• Sexual violence
• Emotional abuse
• Economic abuse

Domestic violence has a profound effect on physical, mental and sexual health. Victims are more likely to suffer from a variety of illnesses and symptoms including:

• Exhaustion/Fatigue
• Headaches
• Body aches
• High blood pressure
• Depression/Anxiety
• Stomach problems
• Sexually transmitted diseases/HIV
• Drug and alcohol abuse

Who is Affected by Domestic Violence? 

One in four women and one in seven men will be victims of DV during their liftime. Recent studies show the DV is just as common in LGBTQ relationships. DV crosses all racial, economic, age and cultural barriers. 

Why Talk to your Healthcare Provider? 

Letting your healthcare provider know about DV is important. At GBMC, we care about your overall health and understand the profound effect DV has on overall wellness. We have various resources and staff members available to help victims of DV 24 hours a day. 

What Can I Do Today? 

• Talk to your healthcare provider
• Plan for your safety
  • Tell a neighbor, family member or friend what is going on
  • Choose a secret word to signal that something is wrong
  • Pack a bag, including money
  • Keep a record of all incidents
  • Hide a spare key outside
  • Keep copies of important documents in a safe, private place, including:
    • Driver's license
    • Children's birth certificates
    • Bank cards
    • Important telephone numbers
• Rehearse what you will do and where you will go if you need to get out in a hurry

Domestic Violence and Pregnancy 

Contrary to what you might think, abuse sometimes begins or increases during pregnancy and after delivery. Abuse during pregnancy can lead to many medical problems and can endanger the lives of both the mother and the growing baby. If you are pregnant or have a newborn and are experiencing DV, please reach out for help. You and your baby deserve to be safe.