Recently, events involving both national celebrity figures and local community members have brought the issue of domestic violence into the news. It’s important for the public to understand some of the facts about domestic violence, and to know that there are places to go for help.

As the executive director of the Abused Women’s Advocacy Project, which serves victims of domestic violence in Androscoggin, Franklin and Oxford counties, I would like to provide some information.

Domestic violence is about the power and control that one person in a relationship has over another. Domestic violence has many forms and may include physical violence, name-calling, threats, financial control, and/or isolation.

People who abuse their family members make a choice to do so. Domestic violence is not about poor anger management, stress, or a lack of communication skills. It is about a person using abusive behavior. In these tough economic times, many of us are feeling the stress of uncertain financial situations – but most do not use that as an excuse to use violent behavior.

There are resources to help those affected by domestic violence. For more than 30 years, AWAP has been providing emergency shelter, advocacy, and education to the tri-county area. Our help line is staffed 24 hours a day and is free and confidential. We are here to listen, provide support, and offer resources. Please call us at 1-800-559-2927.

Kathryn WilliamsPalmer, executive director

Abused Women’s Advocacy Project, Auburn