Domestic Abuse — A Silent Epidemic

	Each year, approximately 2 million women are severly assaulted by male partners.
	Each year, an estimated 3.3 million children witness domestic abuse.
	Each year, 40% of teenage girls ages 14-17 report knowing someone their age who has been hit or beaten by a boyfriend.

	Businesses pay an estimated $3 to $5 billion a year in medical expenses associated with domestic violence and forfeit an additional $100 million a year in lost wages, sick leave, absenteeism and non-productivity.
	Domestic abuse has been linked to a wide range of societal problems; people from violent homes include 89% of violent criminals; 95% of homeless people; a large percentage of alcoholics and drug addicts; many juvenile delinquents; and a majority of welfare recipients.

	The DuPage County Health Department identified domestic abuse and child abuse/neglect as two of the top five major public health problems.
	DuPage crime data indicate that domestic abuse is the county's second most prevalent offense.

Only a small percentage of domestic incidents are reported, so we know these statistics represent only the tip of the iceberg.

	Domestic Abuse
	–	Victims of Abuse
	–	Perpetrators of Abuse
	How to assess whether you are abused
	How to cover your tracks
	Safety planning
	How to help another

Remember, call the hotline if you need to talk to someone.
(630) 469 5650