OKCIC offers self-defense education series to defend against dating violence.
OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma City Indian Clinic (OKCIC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit clinic providing health and wellness services to American Indians in central Oklahoma, is offering self-defense education during Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.
Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is observed every February to bring awareness to violent and abusive dating behaviors among teens and young adults. According to Love Is Respect, one-in-three U.S. teens will experience physical, sexual or emotional abuse from someone they’re in a relationship with.
“Dating violence includes a pattern of manipulative or intimidating behaviors used to exert power over a partner,” said Kim Farris, OKCIC’s Director of Behavioral Health. “Teens who experience dating violence are more likely to experience mental health issues and use drugs and alcohol.”
Dating violence is dangerous. Sometimes, victims may have no other choice than to resort to self-defense. OKCIC is hosting a series of self-defense classes for women ages 16 and older. The next class is February 15, 2023 for both patients and community members. Classes will be held in the lobby at 4913 W. Reno Ave., Oklahoma City, OK. To register, please call (405) 948-4900 ext. 519 or visit okcic.com/event/womens-self-defense-class/2023-02-01/
“Learning self-defense skills could save your life,” Farris said. “It’s also important to reach out to a professional for help if you are currently experiencing abuse in your relationship.”
Advocates can help create personalized safety plans to keep you protected from an abuser, or to help you escape a dangerous relationship. It can be hard to think clearly in times of crisis, so creating a plan in advance can help protect you in a high-stress situation.
For free and confidential support, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). You can also text START to 88788 or online chat at thehotline.org. If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.
About Oklahoma City Indian Clinic
Oklahoma City Indian Clinic was established in 1974 to provide excellent health care and wellness services to American Indians in central Oklahoma. The clinic staff cares for nearly 23,000 patients from over 200 federally recognized tribes every year. American Indians can receive a range of services, including medical, dental, pediatrics, prenatal, pharmacy, optometry, physical fitness, nutrition, family programs and behavioral health services. For more information, please call (405) 948-4900 or visit www.okcic.com.