Every week, headlines seem to carry another heartbreaking story of domestic violence. For many people, it raises the question: Is abuse becoming more common, or are we simply hearing more about it?

The truth is complex—and important to understand.

The Reality: Abuse Has Always Been There

Domestic violence is not new. For generations, Survivors have lived in silence, often with little to no support or safe pathways out. What has changed in recent years is visibility. Conversations that were once hidden behind closed doors are now being brought into the light. Survivors are finding their voices, and communities, advocates, and the media are beginning to amplify them.

Why We’re Hearing More Now

Several factors contribute to the increase in coverage and awareness:

• Media Attention: News outlets and social media platforms are shining a brighter spotlight on domestic violence. High-profile cases and Survivor-led advocacy are breaking through cultural silence.

• Survivor Voices: Empowered by support networks and organizations like Control Alt Delete, more Survivors are bravely telling their stories. Each story told helps another Survivor know they are not alone.

• Increased Reporting: With more resources and public campaigns, people are more likely to report abuse when they see it. This makes domestic violence appear to be “rising,” but in reality, it may just be better documented.

• Pandemic Aftershocks: The isolation and economic stress of recent years intensified abuse for many Survivors. While the numbers may not tell the whole story, service providers like us know firsthand the demand for escape support has grown.

Abuse Is Still Underreported

Even with this increased visibility, domestic violence remains vastly underreported. Fear of retaliation, shame, financial dependency, and lack of safe options all prevent Survivors from coming forward. For every story you hear about, there are countless more hidden in silence.

The Critical Role of Agencies Like Control Alt Delete

When law enforcement, medical professionals, advocates, and social workers—our first and second responders—come into contact with a Survivor in immediate danger, they often face a painful dilemma: they know someone needs to escape, but they don’t always have the resources to make that escape possible.

That’s where Control Alt Delete steps in. We provide an immediate, practical solution—whether it’s a tank of gas, a night of safety, or the shoes on a child’s feet—so first and second responders have a real avenue to help Survivors in the moment when it matters most. Instead of sending someone back into danger because there are “no funds” or “no beds available,” responders can turn to us to bridge that gap and get Survivors to safety.

Why This Matters

Whether domestic violence is increasing or simply being reported more, the impact is the same: Survivors need safety, resources, and a way out. Control Alt Delete exists to meet that urgent need, and to ensure that those who answer the first call for help are never left without options to offer.

How You Can Help

• Believe Survivors. When someone shares their story, listen without blame or doubt.

• Support Services. Donate, volunteer, or spread the word about organizations like Control Alt Delete that provide immediate help.

• Stay Aware. Educate yourself and your community. Increased awareness means increased safety.

At the end of the day, whether we are hearing more because it’s happening more—or because Survivors are finally being heard—the takeaway is the same: domestic violence is real, it is devastating, and together we can help end it.