Trauma is more common than many people realize. As trauma expert Dr. Bessel van der Kolk writes, «One does not have to be a combat soldier or visit a refugee camp in Syria or the Congo to encounter trauma.» Trauma can happen to anyone at any point in their lives.

One of the most common—and often hidden—sources of trauma is domestic violence. Abuse affects much more than a person’s physical safety. It can leave invisible, lasting emotional, mental, and physical scars. Survivors may live with chronic pain, GI issues, trouble sleeping, anxiety, depression, isolation, financial burdens from medical bills, and other issues. These health effects can continue long after the abuse has ended.

Many survivors hesitate to reach out for help. They may fear being judged, worry about their immigration status in today’s climate, face language barriers, or feel pressure from family or cultural expectations. These concerns are real and can keep people from asking for help. That’s why it’s so important to create a safe space where survivors are believed and empowered.

One local organization doing just that is Congreso de Latinos Unidos. Congreso works to support individuals and families as they heal and move forward and believes that every person deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. Regardless of a person’s language, background, immigration status, age, education, or life experience, Congreso provides a welcoming place where people can connect with resources and support in the language, they are most comfortable speaking.

Congreso is also one of four organizations that operate the Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline (1-866-723-3014), a free, 24-hour resource for anyone experiencing abuse. When someone calls the hotline, they can expect to be listened to with care and understanding. Advocates help survivors outline their goals, create personalized safety plans, and connect with local services that meet their specific needs. The goal is not to tell someone what to do, but to help them make informed decisions and take the next step toward safety.

Prevention is another important part of Congreso’s work. Through education and community outreach, the organization helps people recognize the warning signs of domestic violence and understand where to turn for help. These open conversations reduce stigma, encourage people to seek support, and empower neighbors, friends, and family members to help someone who may be experiencing abuse.

Congreso also provides medical advocacy, since doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals are often among the first to notice signs of abuse. Congreso partners with healthcare systems to promote domestic violence screening, trauma-informed care, and staff training so survivors receive the care and support they need as early as possible.

Everyone deserves to live free from violence and to have the opportunity to heal from trauma. By meeting people where they are with compassion, respect, and culturally responsive services, Congreso strengthens Philadelphia’s Latin@ communities and builds a safer, healthier future for all.

*A monthly column by the Philadelphia Domestic Violence Collaborative.

This is part of a monthly series by Congreso de Latinos Unidos, Lutheran Settlement House, Women Against Abuse and Women in Transition that will share information about domestic violence, the available local resources, and how to be an advocate for healthy relationships.