It is estimated that there are about 17,000 domestic violence cases reported to law enforcement annually in San Diego County. According to the San Diego County District Attorney, domestic violence “includes a pattern of abusive behaviors used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner” and can take many forms, including physical, emotional, economic and sexual abuse. It can often be hard to recognize when it is occurring as it is difficult to acknowledge this type of behavior could be coming from someone we love, but domestic abuse can happen anywhere and to anyone.  That’s why it is important for everyone to be aware of both the warning signs and the safety resources available for victims of domestic violence.

The YWCA of San Diego County has put together a comprehensive list of warning signs to help identify the symptoms of an abusive relationship and also offers information on how to help someone you know who may be in one. Should the warning signs of domestic violence progress, it is recommended that victims seek out help immediately before the situation becomes dangerous.

The County of San Diego Office of Violence Prevention offers multiple ways for victims of domestic violence to find support, including safety planning, hotlines and resources for youth and elders. Several 24 hour hotlines have been established to give callers the opportunity to speak with trained domestic violence advocates, who can help create safety plans and talk through other options for support.

In extreme cases where victims feel they are in immediate danger, there are five leading shelter organizations in San Diego County that offer anywhere from 30 to 60 day stays, including:

Becky's House Emergency Shelter, YWCA of San Diego County
24 Hour Helpline: (619) 234-3164

Carol's House, Community Resource Center
Phone: (760) 633-1111
24 Hour Helpline: (877) 633-1112

Project Safehouse, Center for Community Solutions
24 Hour Helpline: (888) 385-4657

Women’s Resource Center
24 Hour Helpline: (760) 757-3500

Casa Seguras, South Bay Community Services
Phone: (619) 420-3620
24 Hour Helpline: (800) 640-2933

The City of San Diego also provides several accessible resources to help aid people who may be experiencing domestic abuse, including hotlines, safety plans and information about victim rights.  

It is important to remember - Anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse, regardless of their gender, race, age, sexual orientation or religious affiliation and everyone has the right to live without fear and violence.

Additional resources:

San Diego Regional Guide – Domestic Violence Resources (Spanish)

San Diego Domestic Violence Council – Personal Safety Plan

Center for Community Solutions at (858) 272-1767

YWCA's Domestic Violence 24 Hour Hotline at (619) 234-3164

San Diego County Domestic Violence 24 Hour Hotline at 1-888-DVLINKS

Article submitted by Shannon Daly, Communications Student at the University of California, San Diego