Everything Self Defense Columbia, South Carolina

The recent statistics on domestic violence really are staggering.  1 in 4 women are predicted to be a victim of domestic violence in their lifetime. The reality of domestic violence became all too real for me this month. I was contacted by a women who was interested in enrolling in my school but wasn't able to start after the holidays.  After talking to her on the phone for a few minutes, I could sense something was not right.  After questioning her, she confided to me that she was being abused by her boyfriend, who had threatened to kill her repeated.  Even though she had gone to the police, the legal system really wasn't protecting her and she was very scared. I invited her to my school the very next day and worked with her for nearly 3 hours one on one.  While I realize one lesson will not make her safe, I tried to offer her some basic tools, mental as well as physical to help protect herself. I also provided a folder of resources for her to look into, particularly, one of

Did you know that 1 in 4 women in the United States is a victim of domestic violence sometime in her life? 1 in 4 means that approximately 2.5 million women will be victims of domestic violence in 2012 1 in 4 means that a woman you know is or has been a victim of domestic violence 1 in 4 means that it could be your mom, grandma, sister, aunt, coworker or friend Check out the NNEDV for help: New "What If We All Spoke As One" Video from NNEDV - Add Your Voice to end Domestic Violence The National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) works to ensure that there is someone there in every state and community around the country—to listen, to care and to help anyone who needs us. You have the power to make sure that when it happens to someone you know, they have someone to turn to. You have the power to end their suffering by standing with NNEDV to support victims who need help and to bring an end to domestic violence.

The following suggestions are brought to you by The Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE) HOW CAN I HELP A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER WHO IS BEING ABUSED? Don’t be afraid to let him or her know that you are concerned for their safety.  Help your friend or family member recognize the abuse. Tell him or her you see what is going on and that you want to help. Help them recognize that what is happening is not “normal” and that they deserve a healthy, non-violent relationship. Acknowledge that he or she is in a very difficult and scary situation.  Let your friend or family member know that the abuse is not their fault. Reassure him or her that they are not alone and that there is help and support out there. Be supportive.  Listen to your friend or family member. Remember that it may be difficult for him or her to talk about the abuse. Let him or her know that you are available to help whenever they may need it. What they need most is someone who will believe and listen to them. Be non