Domestic violence is a serious issue in Spokane County, according to YWCA Spokane. It affects one in three women and one in 10 men.
“Spokane has one of the highest rates of domestic violence in the state,” said YWCA Spokane CEO Janine Wynne. “So, it’s a serious issue here in our county.”
Her team hears survivors' stories every day, Wynne said.
Although people in the Spokane community are experiencing these issues, she’s concerned about how many survivors don’t report abuse.
“We know so much goes underreported,” she said.
There are multiple reasons a survivor might not report abuse, Wynne explained. That person might fear that people won’t believe them, think others have it worse or think that they’re being too “sensitive.”
But according to Wynne, talking about what’s happening is the first step to getting help.
“I think the earlier that we can engage with survivors who are experiencing intimate partner violence, the easier it is for us to help that survivor get out of a dangerous situation before it escalates further,” she said.
Domestic abuse is not just physical. It can also be verbal and emotional.
YWCA Spokane has a hotline that people can use to get help. It can be used by survivors and by people who know someone experiencing abuse.
Support services can be reached at this number: 509-326-2255.
More information can be found on the YWCA Spokane website.
When survivors reach out to a loved one or friend for help, the most important step is to listen, Wynne said.
“Be there for a survivor when they want to talk. Show respect, listen and most importantly, believe. Believe their stories,” she said.
