CONVO: Supporting Survivors of Sexual and Domestic Violence

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month; this month and any time of year, it is important to raise awareness about this issue and open up the conversation to help everyone better understand the signs of dating violence and how to prevent it from happening in the first place. Join Marissa and Nouchee as we discuss healthy relationships, red flags, and how to support a friend who may be experiencing abuse.

The most important relationship we have is the one with ourselves, but what is self-love and why is it important? Join Marissa and Nouchee to identify why it can be difficult for survivors to practice self-love, and share strategies on how we all can show ourselves love this time of year. 

'Tis the season for self-care! Join Marissa and Jessi to explore ways we can be extra-gentle to ourselves during this time of year.

Family dynamics are the patterns of interactions that we have with family members. Healthy family dynamics give us a sense of safety within the family unit, and unhealthy or even abusive dynamics may cause harm from a young age into adulthood. Join Marissa and Krystal in understanding family dynamics, and making sustainable choices for yourself that honor your voice in these relationships.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month! Join Marissa and Angela in discussing the history and impact of domestic violence, the history of the awareness month in itself, the ways in which we support survivors here at The Women's Center, and ways to get involved in this year's virtual DVAM programming.

Financial abuse is extremely common--94 to 99% of domestic violence survivors also report experiencing financial abuse by their partners. What is it, and how can a survivor find financial empowerment following abuse? Join Marissa and Jesikah in exploring the signs of abuse, and resources to overcome the barriers this abuse creates. 

What is consent, and how do you know if you have it? Join Marissa and Susannah to discuss affirmative consent, healthy relationships, and supporting a friend. Content warning: there is a focus on teen dating violence and sexual assault, including examples of victim-blaming statements and a discussion about rape culture. If you need support throughout this podcast, contact us or your local service provider. 

Back to school can be a tough time for families, and this year adds new stressors to this transition. Join Marissa and Rachel to discuss ways to best prepare and how to be a supportive adult to the kids in your life as they navigate the upcoming school year. 

Domestic violence and sexual assault programs are designed to center survivors of any kind of abuse, with a mission to believe and support survivors. That said, there are many myths associated with reaching out to a program for the first time. Join Marissa to dispel these myths, and learn the types of supports that are available to help you and your family heal. 

Isolation is a common power and control tactic abusers use to cut off a survivor's access to their support system to make them feel dependent upon an abuser. Rebuilding support systems during or following abusive relationships is a crucial component to healing. Join us as we walk through reconnecting with loved ones, our community, and ultimately ourselves. 

This is the end of season one, stay tuned for future topics in July. Thank you for listening!