October is Domestic Violence Awareness month - an opportunity to learn about the impact of DV in our communities and advance efforts to end violence. Intimate Partner Violence is widely recognized as a serious public health problem that affects millions of Americans. Because of fear, secrecy, and shame around the topic, domestic violence is often seen as a problem to be addressed in the home. But the reality is that a majority of DV victims report that is has a significant negative influences on their work life. Various studies describe the impact: 74% report that an abuser contacts and harasses them at work; more than 1/3 report that DV affected their ability to get to work, over 1/2 report that DV took place at or near work, and over 80% report that DV negatively affects their work performance.

What can a supervisor or co-worker do to be supportive?

The first step is to understand the prevalence of domestic violence and to be aware of the warning signs that someone around you might be at risk. Intimate Partner Violence reaches across all social categories, affecting both women and men, straight and same-sex relationships, and all races, religions, and socio-economic classes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in 4 women and one in 7 men have experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner during their lifetime. In Alabama, there are on an average 33 calls every hour to a Domestic Violence Crisis Line. You may have a coworker who trusts you to reach out for support, or you may notice the following signs that could b an indicator that someone is at risk at DV:

• Excessive lateness or unexplained absences
• Frequent use of 'sick time'
• Unexplained injuries or bruising
• Changes in appearance
• Lack of concentration/often preoccupied
• Disruptive phone calls or personal visits fro their partner
• Drops in productivity
• Sensitivity about home life or hints of trouble at home

Once you have assessed that someone you care about could be at risk, it is best to reach out to them in a private, compassionate, and non-judgmental way. The key to supporting a potential victim of domestic violence is to empower them and offer support and options, rather than to tell someone what to do or shame them for their circumstances, as this would only replicate the dynamics of the abusive relationship.

You might start by finding a confidential space and telling the coworkers the behavior changes that concern you, such as "I've noticed you are starting to arrive late to work often and seem distracted. I'm worried about you; is everything all right?" Of course there could be many reasons causing tardiness and lack of concentration other than DV, but by showing that you notice and want to help, someone who is experiencing DV may reach out for support, if not now than in the future. 

Be knowledgeable about the local DV resources in your area. Once you are aware that a co-worker is experiencing abuse in a relationship, offer resources, options, and support. Here are a few other specific ways you can be of support:

• You can help them document the instances of domestic violence in their life. This may include taking pictures of injuries or keeping notes on concerning interactions that occur including dates. 
• You can help them learn about their legal rights. Womenslaw.org has information on DV laws and procedures. 
• Help connect them to the building security guard if you have one. Having a plan with security staff can help deter your coworker's abuser from stopping by, and can give them the option of a safe escort to and from the office.
• Suggest creating a safety plan for their work environment. Ask what they would like you to do if their partner should call or stop by the office.
• Just supporting your coworker no matter what can make a big difference.

Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence usually know how to best keep themselves and their children safe; often times leaving an abuser can be the most dangerous and potentially lethal time in the abuse cycle. Empower victims with resources and choices, but never force them to flee the abuser, report the crime to police, file a protective order, or go to counseling.

The Motiff Shop EAP is a resource for any concerns employees have that impact their personal or work life. Victims of DV can receive support and community referrals through the EAP, and additionally you as a caring colleague or manager can call us to consult on what to do if you are concerned about a co-worker.