It’s only a matter of time that as a medical student or doctor you will be confronted with the impacts of domestic and family violence on our patients and our communities. Whether it be treating a woman for injuries inflicted by her partner during your ED term or being the first person a woman speaks to about what is happening at home during your GP placement, knowing what to say and how to best to respond can be challenging. Though there are protocols and guidelines on what to do in these situations as a health professional, a better understanding of what constitutes domestic and family violence can help us better respond and support our patients in what is considered to be Australia’s hidden epidemic. Karen Prestidge is a Program Manager from Lifeline Community Recovery & Corporate Training skilled in delivering Domestic Violence Training programs with DV-alert. Karen is here to discuss the myths and misconceptions that continue to surround domestic and family violence, the cycle of abuse, and what to watch out for as a health professional. One not to miss! If you or someone you know is affected by this episode, please call 1800 RESPECT or Lifeline on 13 11 14.