GREEN BAY — For teens, being “in love” comes with excitement and new experiences, but for many teens, it can come with fear and abuse. Emplify Health by Bellin and its community partner, Golden House, are coming together to bring awareness to teen dating violence and highlight the support and resources available to teenagers.
Statistics on teen-related domestic violence are startling and show action is needed. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 1 in 3 U.S. teens will experience physical, sexual or emotional abuse from a partner before they become adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has also found that around 9 percent of high school students report being hit, slapped or physically hurt intentionally by their partner in the previous year.
“Teen domestic violence often goes unrecognized because many young people don’t realize that what they are experiencing isn’t normal or healthy,” said Dr. Sherri Hoyman, Emplify Health by Bellin Children & Adolescent Center pediatrician. “Domestic violence has a devasting impact on anyone. With our teens it can cause issues in their development of future relationships and overall emotional growth. It’s important for everyone, including our teens, that compassionate, non-judgmental and confidential support is available whenever they need it.”
Teen domestic violence can take on many forms – physical, emotional, sexual and even digital. For parents, teachers and others in a teen’s life, noticing the warning signs for abuse are essential:
Physical signs can include unexplained injuries or frequent physical “accidents,” as well as wearing clothing that conceals the body, even in warm weather.
Behavioral signs can include withdrawing from social groups or activities, decline in academic performance, showing signs of anxiety, depression or fearfulness and even dramatic changes in personality.
“It’s not just the physical or behavioral signs we need to be looking for, it’s also about the red flags that may appear in a teenager’s relationship,” said Meika Burnikel, Executive Director at Golden House. “We have encountered victims who have shared that their partners were excessively jealous or possessive, constantly monitoring their digital habits and demanding to always know about their whereabouts. It can be easy for teens to make excuses for their partners who display these behaviors, which is why we provide education, guidance and safe place to find the appropriate help.”
Bringing awareness to domestic violence, especially in teens, can save lives. Community organizations and support systems are prepared and willing to help teens who are facing domestic violence.
“Help is always available, and it’s given without judgement and with compassion and understanding,” added Burnikel. “Whether you are a victim, suspect someone could be a domestic violence victim, or simply want to learn more about how you can help – reach out.”
Teens, parents, teachers, friends and guardians are all encouraged to reach out for assistance or education. Connect with an Emplify Health by Bellin provider by visiting www.bellin.org or for a safe place to stay or connection with an additional resources visit www.goldenhouse.org.
For 24/7 confidential support:
Be SAFE: 920-212-733 (SAFE)
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE)