Domestic violence is a problem — a problem that often goes either ignored or unnoticed.

In a low-population, rural area like Beaufort County it’s easy for these cases to fall between the cracks, as there is a stigma attached to the discussion of acts of violence or unrest in a relationship. Many victims are caught between putting on a good front in public and escaping the violence that happens behind closed doors.

People should not be afraid to talk about this. It can happen to anyone, anywhere.

The vast majority of domestic violence victims are women, but there are men who experience it as well.

There are warning signs to look for that may mean a friend (or even oneself) is a victim of domestic violence, according to the Domestic Abuse Intervention Project of Duluth, Minnesota: intimidation, emotional abuse, isolation, denying/blaming, using children as leverage, economic abuse and coercion and threats.

Even if one does not come directly or indirectly in contact with domestic violence, that does not mean it’s not still an important problem about which to do something.

Anyone can — and should — help. It is important to support the services or organizations in Beaufort County specifically for domestic violence victims, such as Ruth’s House. One can volunteer his or her time at one of the nonprofit’s events or stop in for a quick look at Ruth’s House Antiques & More.

Just a small act of kindness can make a world of difference in a victim’s life. It may even mean the difference between someone remaining a victim or transitioning into a survivor.

Beaufort County residents should not accept this problem within its borders. It takes courage to try to heal from domestic violence, and it also takes courage to speak up against it.