The latest reports say that every year 4 million women and 1 in 10 men are harmed by their partners.

Each year, more than 4 million women and one in 10 men are harmed by their partners, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Tragically, the most dangerous time for victims of domestic violence is when they try to leave.

In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, BeSmartBeWell.com, in collaboration with the National Domestic Violence Hotline, shares the story of Bessie, a domestic violence survivor, and provides practical tips and resources to help people break free from abusive relationships.


Barriers to escape
For years, Bessie hid the bruises. She lied to her friends and family, wore long sleeves and used make-up to cover the latest scars. She wanted to escape from her abusive husband, but feared what he would do if she tried to flee. Then, with the help of friends and a domestic violence support group, she made a plan for her escape.

A common misconception about victims of abuse, according to the experts featured on BeSmartBeWell.com, is that they stay because they love the abuser and don’t want to leave. In reality, most don’t leave because they are unable to do so. Some are financially dependent upon their abusers–cut off from jobs, resources and even credit cards–and worry about how they will support themselves and their children. Some have been isolated from their family and friends and lack an adequate support system. Others are threatened with violence if they attempt to leave.

For the rest of this report and the video testimonies of the victims, see http://nigeriantimes..com/2011/10/how-to-escape-from-domestic-violence.html