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Domestic violence is a very real crisis that impacts more people, especially women, than most folks might think.

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), for every 60 seconds, 20 people in this country suffer abuse at the hands of a romantic partner.

Further data from the NCADV reveals about 10% of women have been raped by a romantic partner and about 25% of women's romantic partners have subjected them to extreme physical violence. This includes choking, beatings, burnings, and more.

At the same time, 19% of domestic violence incidents include the use of a weapon.

Sadly, many people who face domestic violence don't receive the necessary care when they suffer injuries as a result. NCADV states only 34% of individuals who sustained said injuries later got medical treatment.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. As seen in the data from NCADV, raising as much awareness about this issue as possible remains paramount.

Signs you may be facing domestic violence

Many people facing domestic violence may not be acutely aware that this is what they're up against. Hence, one important way of raising awareness about domestic violence is shedding light on the warning signs and indicators that something is wrong.

If you or someone you know is dealing with any of the following situations, they're up against domestic violence, as cited by the National Domestic Violence Hotline:

• Not being permitted to make your own choices, such as when to leave home, attend school, go to work, go to events, etc.
• Destruction of property, personal identification, or other personal effects
• Being pressured to use alcohol, drugs, or engage in sex acts when you don't want to
• Threats to harm yourself, your family, your pets, or others whom you care about
• Use of weapons to control or intimidate you
• Blocking or discouraging you from maintaining healthy relationships with other people, such as friends, relatives, coworkers, etc.
• Intentionally shaming and belittling you, publicly humiliating you, telling you you're worthless, unloveable, incapable of doing anything right
• Controlling your access to income, forcing you to work and taking your money, not allowing you to work, etc.

How to find help and escape

Domestic violence comes with an extremely high mortality rate, making it that much more important for individuals facing this abuse to seek help and get away from their abusers.

If you feel your life is in immediate danger, calling 911 is advisable.

Also, when planning to leave a situation involving domestic violence, it's a good idea to not let your abuser know. Many abusers have a tendency to lash out or even kill their victims upon learning they've made an escape plan.

Reaching out to friends, relatives, or even women's shelters for support can also go a long way when seeking an out from a violent situation.

If you know someone who is facing domestic violence, one of the best things you can do for them is let them know they have a support system in you. This can go a very long way, should this person decide they're ready to permanently leave their situation.