February is “Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month”.  It may surprise you to know that teen dating violence is an issue that affects ¼ million high school students each year, yet only about a third of teens who were in an abusive relationship told anyone about it.  In an effort to increase awareness of this serious situation, PGH is passing along these suggestions found on the One Love website https://www.joinonelove.org/

• Do not stay in a relationship or friendship where you count on someone to change their behavior
• Learn about the signs of unhealthy relationships.  Go to https://www.joinonelove.org/act/escalation-workshop/ to find out more.
• Don’t feel pressured to stay in an unhealthy relationship.  Leaving an unhealthy partner is not a sign of failure.
• Help a friend.  While it’s natural to worry about what to say, how to say it and when, talking to your friend can save them from a dangerous relationship.
• Pass this information along.  When we understand how to love, we can strengthen our relationships and demonstrate to others how to do the same. 
• Consider bringing One Love’s workshops to your school.  These workshops are being taught in over 650 colleges and 400 high schools across the country.  Remember, knowledge is power!

PGH supports this and other organizations, including Turning Point and Tuscaloosa Safe Center, in their efforts to educate the public regarding teen dating violence and sexual assault and supporting those who have been affected.