Women's support group to end domestic violence

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Grace Lee
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  It can start unexpectedly maybe with a few harsh words that escalate into throwing an object or being physically hurt or hurting someone in the heat of the moment.

To prevent and treat domestic violence for women, the 56th Medical Operations Squadron Family Advocacy program has a support group called the Women's Emotions Management/Relationship Skills Group available to all active duty, National Guard and Reserve members, dependents and retirees.

"The group is offered for women to learn about themselves, their emotions and how to handle them appropriately," said Kim Montero, 56th MDOS family advocacy treatment manager. "We discuss topics such as how to stand up for themselves without being aggressive, how their past experiences may impact them and their relationships today, and how to handle conflict."

The discussion group is important for a number of reasons, which include talking about why we're the way we are.

"Many people grow up with different patterns or guides on how to manage emotions and relationships that aren't always healthy," said Capt. Angela Cusimano, 56th MDOS family advocacy officer. "We try to teach women first how to healthily manage their emotions, and second, we teach them new skills or to relearn skills to have a healthy and safe relationship whether it is with their spouse, family member or friend."

The group is led by Montero, who facilitates group discussions covering topics ranging from sex, intimacy, self-esteem and coping with criticism to looking at different emotions such as jealousy, anxiety, depression and sadness.

"We also discuss the characteristics of a healthy relationship versus an unhealthy relationship," Montero said. "In addition, we talk about self-care and how that's done first so they are able to give in a relationship without feeling overburdened or drained."

Each session begins with a check-in where group members share how their week went and get support from others, Montero said.

"The main benefit most women get from coming to the group is knowing there are other women who struggle with the same issues or came from a similar background," Cusimano said. "There's really nothing that can replace knowing someone else who knows or can understand what you've been through or what you're going through currently."

For those interested in joining the group, signing up is easy.

"We encourage anyone who is struggling with any of the topics talked about to participate in the group," Montero said. "Call us at 623-856-3417 and mention the phrase 'power to change' or come by the mental health clinic on a Tuesday and sit in during a session to see if it's something you would be interested in attending."
Confidential group discussions are 10 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday at the mental health clinic.