February is teen dating violence awareness month

February 19, 2018

CARTHAGE, Tenn. – Did you know February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month? The Tennessee Department of Health wants you to know there is a lot you can do as a parent to prevent teen dating violence and abuse. Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is a national effort to raise awareness about dating violence, promote programs that support young people and encourage communities to prevent this form of abuse with the goal of decreasing the prevalence of dating violence among young people.

Did you know one in three young people experiences physical or sexual abuse or both by a dating partner? One of the most important things you can do to keep teens safe is keep the lines of communication open with your children.

Take steps to make a difference:

  • Be a role model – treat your children and others with respect
  • Start talking to your children about healthy relationships early, before they start dating
  • Get involved with efforts to prevent dating violence at your teen’s school
  • If you’re worried about your teen or another teen you know, call the National Dating Abuse Helpline at 1-866-331-9474 or text “loveis” to 22522.

You can help keep your loved ones safe and healthy. For more information, visit www.breakthecycle.org/teendvmonth.

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