February 21, 2024

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, and health officials are urging parents to talk with your children about healthy relationships.

According to a national CDC survey, almost 30% of teens reported having been physically or psychologically abused; and 10% said they were victims of dating violence within the past year.

Officials say teen dating violence can be physical, emotional or sexual; and abuse can have both short- and long-term consequences, including trauma, depression and anxiety. It also puts teens at a higher risk of suicide, substance and alcohol abuse, negative body image and self-esteem, poor academic performance, and violence in future relationships.

The keys to prevention are awareness, early intervention and creating communities where dating violence is not tolerated. Teach your child to watch out for signs of an unhealthy relationship—including disrespect, control and jealousy, and intimidation—and teach them how to build relationships based on mutual respect, trust, honesty, communication, and compromise.

For more tips and information visit youth.gov, and select “Dating Violence Prevention” from the “Topics” menu; or visit the teen-oriented site loveisrespect.org.

Josh Freeman | KAZM News Director | josh@mellowmountainradio.com