“Domestic violence can come in many forms as well,” says Murphy. “Abuse can be emotional, financial, physical or sexual.”

Here are a few examples of abuse:

• Calls you names, insults or is continually critical (emotional abuse)
• Threatens to hurt you, the children, your family or pets (emotional abuse)
• Controls how money is spent (financial abuse)
• Sabotages work by stalking or harassing at the workplace (financial abuse)
• Pushes, slaps, bites, kicks or chokes (physical abuse)
• Traps you in your home or keeps you from leaving (physical abuse)
• Insults you in sexual ways or calls you sexual names (sexual abuse)
• Ignores your feelings regarding sex (sexual abuse)

Domestic violence can happen to anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion or gender and affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels. Victims may find support groups or counseling helpful in determining how to deal with relationship issues.

Domestic violence victims who are in physical danger should call 9-1-1 or call the Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-332-7385.

Murphy concluded, “Although October is considered National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, it’s always helpful to recognize the signs of domestic violence and to consider what actions one might take.”