Standing Together: November is Family Violence Prevention Month
Family violence is more common than many realize.
It can affect anyone — regardless of age, gender, income, or background — and it doesn’t always leave visible marks. In Alberta, rates of family violence remain among the highest in the country. While that’s a difficult truth, it’s also a call to action: we can all play a role in prevention and support.
November is Family Violence Prevention Month in Alberta — a time to raise awareness, support those affected, and remind everyone that help is available, right here in our own community. Understanding Family Violence Family violence isn’t only physical. It includes emotional, verbal, sexual, financial, and psychological abuse, as well as controlling or isolating behaviours that make someone feel afraid, powerless, or dependent.
It can happen between partners, within families, and across generations. Children who witness violence in the home are also deeply affected — even if they aren’t the direct target. Exposure to violence can impact a child’s development, mental health, and sense of safety well into adulthood. Many people experiencing family violence describe feeling trapped, ashamed, or unsure where to turn. Sometimes they worry they won’t be believed. Sometimes they fear losing their home, their children, or their community connections. That’s why safe, confidential, and local access to help matters so much.
How the Consort Medical Clinic Can Help
At the Consort Medical Clinic, our healthcare team understands that family violence is a health issue, not just a home issue. The effects of abuse can show up in many ways —from anxiety, depression, and chronic pain to sleep problems or difficulty managing other health conditions. We also recognize that healthcare providers often play an important role in identifying and supporting individuals experiencing family violence. Our team is here to listen, to connect patients to local and provincial supports, and to ensure safety is always the first priority. Conversations are always confidential, and patients can share as much or as little as they feel ready to.
If you’re worried about someone else, we can also guide you on how to check in safely, offer support, and connect them to help.
If You Need Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence:
Call or text 310-1818 — Alberta’s Family Violence Info Line (available 24/7 in over 170 languages)
Call 911 if you are in immediate danger
Victim Services (Consort RCMP Detachment): 403-577-3000
Alberta’s One Line for Sexual Violence: 1-866-403-8000
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686-868
You don’t have to face it alone — and it’s never too late to reach out.
How You Can Help
We all have a role to play in prevention:
Listen without judgment.
Believe survivors.
Check in if something feels wrong.
Speak up about respect and healthy relationships.
Small actions — a kind word, a quiet offer of help, or simply knowing the right number to call — can be life-changing for someone living in fear.
A Community That Cares
Family violence thrives in silence, but communities like ours have the power to break that silence. By talking about it openly, showing compassion, and connecting people with resources, we make it easier for those experiencing abuse to seek safety and support.
This month — and every month — the Consort Medical Clinic stands with those affected by family violence. Together, we can help ensure that everyone in our community feels safe, supported, and valued.
