In this powerful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer sits down with Marie B. Philip, retired Deputy Commissioner of the NYC Human Resources Administration, to break down the realities of intimate partner violence and elder abuse. Drawing from frontline experience, Marie B. Philip offers insight into the patterns of domestic violence, the importance of community responses, and actionable steps for supporting friends, family, or yourself when abuse is suspected. The conversation dispels myths, provides resources, and always centers the survivor’s safety and dignity.

Topics Covered:

• Definition and types of intimate partner violence
• Recognizing patterns and behaviors of domestic violence
• The evolution of domestic violence programming and policy
• Elder abuse: characteristics, signs, and unique challenges
• The role of financial exploitation in elder abuse
• Practical steps for friends and family members who suspect abuse
• Barriers to reporting and seeking help (shame, isolation, dependence)
• Safety planning: go bags, document collection, cyber safety for survivors
• National resources and online safety tips for those seeking help

Key Takeaways:

• Domestic violence is a community issue—one in four individuals experience it, and it can affect anyone across the lifespan.
• Elder abuse is often under-reported and can range from physical neglect to financial exploitation.
• Supporting victims starts with nonjudgmental conversations and prioritizing their safety and agency.
• Awareness and education inject the power to intervene early and effectively.
• Modern resources include cyber safety measures for those in dangerous situations, particularly when using shared devices.

Six Best Quotes:

1. “Domestic violence isn't a problem out there, it's a problem in here.” –
   Marie B Philip
2. “It starts from the beginning, but in very discreet ways. And it builds.” –
   Marie B Philip
3. “It's not about why they didn't leave, it's about what's helping them to stay.” –
   Marie B Philip
4. “Isolation is a key factor in domestic violence... Education and awareness is a key response in domestic violence.” –
   Marie B Philip
5. “Being supportive as you can, talking about what safety would look like, because maybe leaving the situation is not what can be done at that point.” –
   Marie B Philip

Resources Mentioned:

• National Domestic Violence Helpline: https://www.thehotline.org
• National Coalition Against Domestic Violence: https://ncadv.org/
  • Cyber safety feature for private browsing
• CDC Definition of Elder Abuse: https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/elderabuse/index.html
• Adult Protective Services (State-By-State Finder): https://www.napsa-now.org/get-help/help-in-your-area/
• NYC Human Resources Administration (HRA): https://www.nyc.gov/site/hra/index.page

Top 8 Hashtags for Sharing:

#DomesticViolenceAwareness
#ElderAbusePrevention
#MESHPodcast
#IntimatePartnerViolence
#SafetyPlanning
#CommunitySupport
#EndTheSilence
#EmpowerSurvivors