May marks the start of Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Prevention Month. It's a time to encourage individuals and communities to speak out against violence, empower people to work together for prevention, and highlight available support services.

It’s also an opportunity to highlight the widespread health impacts of DFV and to remind those within the community experiencing violence, as well as their friends, family and colleagues, that their general practitioner (GP) can be a safe place to seek help.

Research shows 1 in 6 women and 1 in 18 men in Australia have experienced physical or sexual violence from a partner. Across the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Lithgow and Penrith areas, nearly 1,900 domestic violence-related assaults were reported last year. While these figures are alarming, we know that this number is likely to be much higher considering how many cases go unreported.

The effects and impacts of DFV can manifest in different ways. It’s one of the top five health risks for women aged 15–54 and is linked to conditions like anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.

We know that every week, a GP sees up to five women who have been abused by their partners, but only one in five will disclose that they are actively experiencing DFV. The rate of GPs that are trained to recognise the more subtle signs and symptoms, and how to respond appropriately, is gradually increasing thanks to the Care and Connect Program, funded by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.

The training provides GPs with the knowledge and resources to better identify and support victim-survivors. Our hope is that this will increase not only that disclosure rate but also improve the GP’s ability to identify a victim-survivor and effectively navigate that conversation.

The program connects GPs and other health professionals with Care and Connect Linkers, which are specially trained workers based in local GP clinics. Linkers can assist with everything from linking them with the most appropriate DFV service, to safety planning, referrals for housing, counselling, legal help, financial support, and behaviour change programs for those using violence.

For those affected by DFV, or those concerned about someone close to them, your GP can be a safe place to seek support. By providing healthcare professionals with the tools and training they need, we can create a stronger, more informed health system. This will provide those affected by violence with the confidence and sense of safety they need, to seek and access help and to hopefully heal and rebuild their lives.

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, you can also contact 1800RESPECT which offers free, confidential counselling and support 24/7 via phone, online chat, and discreet text message.

For more resources and local services, visit our website.