Voicing awareness on domestic violence Published Oct. 12, 2011 By Airman 1st Class Jose L. Hernandez Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- The month of October recognizes Domestic Violence and it is important for Team Minot members to reflect on the meaning of it and understand it is a social problem that should be acknowledged beyond just one month. During Minot AFB's Wingman Day Oct. 7, several mental health clinic specialists provided awareness training on several subjects including child abuse, neglect and alcohol awareness. Domestic violence has been a continual problem all across the country and it is a problem which entails harming or endangering the health and life of someone, typically done by an intentional behavior of another family member. According to Capt. Cassandra Gilbert, 5th Medical Operations Squadron family advocacy officer, domestic violence cases at Minot AFB predominantly involve the younger populous, usually those between the ages of 21 and 25. "Reasons causing somebody to act out in aggression, abusively or neglectfully vary," said Gilbert. "However, what we do know is that stress levels play a factor in it." She added when people are overwhelmed, they frequently respond in ways they would not normally. In dealing with cases, she said she noticed many involved newlyweds, those new to the military and Minot, new parents, and those who felt they had few social, emotional or financial supports. "Many will frequently resort to maladaptive or inappropriate coping mechanisms like alcohol, substance abuse or aggression to try and manage those changes in their life," said Gilbert. She added that while alcohol plays a large factor, it is not to say that anybody who drinks or has a drinking problem is going to engage in aggressive behaviors towards their partners or children, but it puts them at greater risk. Base leadership has noticed an upward trend in reports of domestic violence and has decided to take a more proactive approach in dealing this social problem. Among the leading agencies tackling the problem is the mental health clinic, which has various programs established ready to provide services to deal with these problems. "The Family Advocacy Program provides clinical supportive services and counseling to families such as individual family marital counseling," said Gilbert. "We also offer stress and anger management classes." Gilbert said they teach a lot of family life skill building classes as well. "We do briefings during commander's calls, squadron visits and train first sergeants on dealing with domestic violence situations," said Gilbert. Overall, she explained lessening domestic violence cases involves a multifaceted approach. "We need to provide education, leadership, support and hold offenders accountable," said Gilbert. "This is not just a family problem, it's a community problem. What we can do to help is acknowledge the problem, see who's at risk and try to help them." Gilbert explained everyone can play a role in helping out and it all starts with being a good neighbor, supervisor, and friend. "It's all about looking out for each other and maintaining a wingman mentality," said Gilbert. Those seeking more information on the various services the mental health clinic has to offer can contact 723-5527.