February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Human Response Network (HRN) invites the Trinity County community to observe TDVAM by wearing orange on February 7, 2023 and supporting programs and activities that promote healthy teen relationships and raise awareness about teen dating violence in our communities.
HRN is honoring the month through displaying orange ribbons along Main Street in Weaverville and conducting educational outreach to Trinity County teens and adults. This year’s theme is “Talk About It, Be About It” which encourages open and honest conversations about dating violence, how to be aware of the signs, and what can be done to prevent it.
Teen dating violence, also known as dating abuse, is a serious and growing problem throughout California. Teen dating violence intervention and prevention programs can help to ensure a positive school climate and safe learning environment for all youth. Education and outreach programs such as HRN’s Expect Respect program address warning signs of teen dating violence among youth before behaviors escalate and teach positive healthy relationship skills.
Some ways that adults can support the teens in their lives, include:
Encourage open, honest, and thoughtful conversations.
Be sensitive to their feelings.
Try to support them in a loving and non-judgmental way.
Understand the pressure and the risks teen’s face.
Discuss how to be an ‘upstander.’
Discuss warning signs of abusive relationships.
Become a trusted information resource.
Model healthy behaviors in a relationship.
For more information about teen dating violence and how to support others, visit www.loveisrespect.org.
HRN helps people of all ages impacted by relationship or other intimate partner violence. HRN can provide help for victims of abuse with crisis intervention, counseling, advocacy, and more. If you are experiencing a Domestic Violence or Sexual Assault Crisis and need to speak with a certified advocate please call (530) 623-HELP or contact HRN during regular business hours at (530)623-2024.