Recognizing When a Work Colleague Is a Victim of Domestic Violence

From 180, Turning Lives Around in Hazlet, here are some warning signs of domestic violence in the workplace:

• Uncharacteristic absenteeism, lateness, change in job performance (such as poor concentration, errors, slowness, change in work quality)
• Unexplained injuries or explanations for them that don’t seem to match, often attributed to falls, accidents, or being clumsy (for example-bruises, black eyes, broken bones or hearing loss)
• Increased anxiety and fear (may be evident by tearfulness, depression, or feeling emotional)
• Dress not may not match the season (such as long sleeves in warm weather, or warning sunglasses indoors)
• Isolation, unusual quietness, or keeping away from others
• Unusual number of phone calls, emails, texts from a current or former partner, strong reaction to these calls, reluctance to take calls, or feeling that one must respond to all calls
• Insensitive or insulting messages from a partner taken by coworkers
• Disruptive personal visits to the workplace by current of former partner
• Irrational or unfounded fear about losing one’s job
• Sensitivity about home life or hints of trouble at home
• Requests for special accommodations (leaving early or time of to attend court)

If you suspect that someone you know is being abused, gently speak up.  If you are hesitating-telling yourself that it is none of your business, you might be wrong, or the person might not want to talk about it-keep in mind that expressing your concern will let them know that you care and may even save his or her life.

DO:

• Ask if something is wrong, express concern, listen and validate, offer help by providing the name and number of the local Domestic Violence Program, support their decisions

DON’T:

• Wait for them to come to you, judge or blame, pressure them, give advice, place conditions on your support

HOTLINE

180 Turning Lives Around offers a 24/7 domestic violence hotline. 

(888) 843-9262 OR (732) 264-4111