DoVE and VARSA are partnering to raise awareness of teen dating abuse. February is Teen Dating Violence (DV) Awareness Month! Teen DV Month (sometimes called TDVAM) is a national effort to raise awareness about abuse in teen and 20-something relationships and promote programs that prevent it during the month of February.
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Dating violence is more common than many people think. In the US, teens age 12-19 experience the highest rates of rape and sexual assault, and approx 1 in 3 adolescent girls is a victim of physical, emotional, or verbal abuse from a dating partner before they become adults.
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1 in 4 dating teens is abused through technology. Victims of sexual assault are 3 times more likely to suffer from depression. 6 times more likely to suffer from PTSD. 13 times more likely to abuse alcohol. 26 times more likely to abuse drugs.
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Check out this awesome video on consent from Vashon High School's Prevention Club. Help us spread awareness and stop dating abuse before it starts!
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REMEMBER: THERE IS NO CONSENT WHEN ALCOHOL OR DRUGS ARE INVOLVED.
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If you or a friend need help or support, contact DoVE's confidential Teen Hotline: (301) 541-DOVE
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thatsnotcool.com
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