Silent Witness display outside Grossman Commons (Isabella Cantillano-Sanchez)
By Isabella Cantillano-Sanchez
Millions of Americans are affected by domestic violence every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lauren Folloni, director of Student Counseling, spoke during a recent interview about the resources at 4Cs available for survivors of domestic violence at Cape Cod Community College.
Q: What resources are available at 4Cs for survivors of domestic violence?
A: Our campus has many resources available for anyone in a domestic violence situation. Our first priority will always be our students’ safety. For that reason, our Public Safety team is available to help. They’re trained to respond with care and discretion and can support students in feeling safe on our campus. We also offer free mental health counseling on campus through Student Counseling so that students can have someone to speak with and receive confidential mental health support. We have a Title IX Coordinator, Dr. Gretchen Nelson, who is available to consult with students and assist them in accessing care and implementing supportive measures. 4Cs also has a partnership with Independence House, a domestic and sexual violence advocacy center located in Hyannis, so that our students may access free and confidential counseling and advocacy services when needed. Finally, our Wellness Team hosts programs and events designed to raise awareness about domestic violence and offer support to those in need. The most recent examples include two important events held on October 21: the Red Flag/Green Flag Relationship Presentation and the Silent Witness display. The Red Flag/Green Flag presentation was hosted in partnership with Independence House and focused on teaching students about healthy relationships as well as domestic violence support and resources. The Silent Witness Display is a public event that seeks to raise awareness about domestic violence and engage the community in ending violence against women.
Q: What are some common misconceptions about domestic violence?
A: It’s common to think of domestic violence as only physical abuse, but it can also be emotional, verbal, sexual, or financial. Another common misconception is that leaving is easy. It is very complicated and sometimes even dangerous to leave. It’s also important to remember that domestic violence can happen to anyone. While much of the focus on domestic and relationship violence is rightly on women survivors, the data shows that men also experience domestic violence. So our campus resources are open to anyone who needs help. Understanding that helps us create a more supportive and nonjudgmental community for anyone experiencing domestic violence.
Q: What advice would you give to those that want to help a loved one experiencing domestic violence?
A: The best thing you can do is listen nonjudgmentally and be there for them. Let them know you care and that they don’t have to go through it alone. Try not to push them to make quick decisions. Allow them to share what’s on their mind without feeling rushed to action or judged. Just being a steady, supportive presence will likely make a big difference! You can also share information about resources that are available to help, such as Independence House located in Hyannis, Student Counseling in the Life Fitness Center, and Public Safety in Grossman Commons. A reminder that help is available and someone cares typically goes a very long way for someone experiencing domestic violence.
