Intimate Partner Violence

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) refers to abuse (sexual,
physical, psychological/emotional, or verbal) within a close
relationship. This may be between dating partners, domestic partners,
spouses or former spouses. Often times, IPV begins with
emotional/psychological or verbal abuse and escalates to physical or
sexual assault.

The CDC reports that women experience about 4.8 million intimate partner related physical assaults and rapes each year. Men are the victims of about 2.9 million intimate partner related physical assaults.

IPV Can Be Prevented!

It’s important for people to understand what is involved in a healthy
relationship. Healthy relationships include expressing yourself
honestly, communicating openly, agreeing to disagree at times and
ultimately respecting one another. Unhealthy relationships may include
threats, intimidation, name-calling, stalking, jealousy, controlling
behavior or criticism.

If you find yourself in an unhealthy relationship, seek help! Talk to a trusted friend, counselor, or healthcare provider. There are many community resources available.

In Delaware, contact:

Kent/Sussex Domestic Violence Hotline 302-422-8058
New Castle County Domestic Violence Hotline 302-762-6110
Rape Crisis CONTACT Services 1-800-262-9800

Source: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Understanding Intimate Partner Violence

Remember your New Year’s Pledge: More Good News About Exercise!

If there weren’t already enough benefits to being physically active, consider a new study conducted at the University of Vermont which found that mood can be elevated for up to 12 hours after exercise!

The study was conducted with college students exercising for 20 minutes at a moderate intensity level. Participants then completed a questionnaire which evaluated their mood at one, two, four, eight, 12 and 24 hrs after exercise. The study found that an elevated mood lasted for up to 12 hrs after exercise when compared to participants who didn’t exercise at all.

Need a Quick Exercise Mood-Boost During the Work Day?

Check out these simple tips for daily exercise (even while at the office)…

• Lift light weights (1-5 lbs) while sitting at your desk or talking on the phone
• Stash an exercise band in your desk for resistance work throughout the day
• Bring your gym shoes for a lunchtime power walk
• Squats and lunges are simple leg workouts that can be done down office corridors or hallways
• Try calf raises while typing on the computer
• Get your colleagues on board with exercise in the workplace – form a support group to motivate each other
• Start each workday with a 5-10 minute meditation to relax and quiet the mind
• Keep a water bottle at your desk to stay hydrated

Remember that exercise doesn’t have to be torture! A simple 20 minute workout each day can have significant health benefits including a happier, calmer demeanor in the workplace! You’re worth it!