Submitted by: Gail Johnson, Public Health Nurse, Westford Health Department
When we hear the words domestic violence, we may picture physical abuse. But domestic violence is not always visible, and it does not always leave a bruise. Today, the preferred public health term is Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), which expands our understanding beyond just married couples living under one roof. IPV explicitly includes dating partners, teenagers, and couples who live apart, parents & children, making it clear that abuse can affect any relationship.
Whether we call it domestic violence or IPV, this abuse can include physical, sexual, emotional/psychological, verbal, financial, spiritual, digital or abuse, as well as controlling behaviors that make someone feel afraid, isolated, or unable to make decisions for themselves. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, income, or background.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, support survivors, and remind our community that everyone deserves to feel safe and respected in their relationships.
Sometimes, the most important thing we can do is simply notice, listen, and let someone know they are not alone. Some subtle signs to look out for include:
- A friend or neighbor suddenly pulling away from friends, family, or activities they love.
- A partner who demands constant check-ins, tracking, or immediate text replies.
- A loved one who seems anxious, on edge, or constantly changing behavior to avoid upsetting their partner.
Public Awareness Campaigns: During the month of October
- Westford lights the town bandstand with purple lights. The purple lights signify support and hope for survivors, remembrance of those that have lost their lives to domestic abuse, and encourages people to talk openly about domestic violence and share resources. Purple represents courage, survival, and dedication to ending violence, and peace. The main goal is to educate our community, understand and recognize signs of abuse, and promote healthy relationships.
- To help educate and support our community throughout the month, the J.V. Fletcher Library will spotlight a book display focused on domestic violence and the prevention of bullying.
- Westford Health Department has a free resource booklet available to anyone interested in domestic violence information and resources. It is free of charge, and available for pick-up at our office. You can also access resources online directly through the town’s web page. https://westfordma.gov/1493/Domestic-and-Sexual-Violence-Resources.
Key actions taken by the town and local organizations include
The “Run for Liv” Annual Event, held in September in Westford, this community 5K and walk is hosted by the Live for Liv Foundations to honor the memory of a Westford Academy student and raise funds to help survivors.
Westford Police work closely with the Domestic Violence Services Network (DVSN) to deploy trained advocates for immediate outreach, and confidential safety planning for local victims and their families.
If you, or someone you care about needs support, please know that you do not have to navigate this alone. Safe, confidential help is available 24/7 through the dedicated hotlines below.
- Alternative House Crisis Hotline: 1-888-291-6228 (Our local regional emergency shelter and support program).
- Massachusetts SafeLink: 1-877-785-2020 (Statewide multi-lingual domestic violence hotline).
- The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788.
- Domestic Violence Services Network (DVSN) Helpline: 1-888-399-6111 (In partnership with local police departments).
As always, if you are in immediate physical danger, please call 911 right away.
Internet Safety Tip: If you suspect your phone or computer is being monitored, please clear your browser history after looking up resources, or use a secure device at the library.
Let’s look out for one another this October, Westford. For questions about these resources or other health department programs, please contact Gail Johnson, BSN, RN, Public Health Nurse, Westford Health Department.
