The staff at Lassen Family Services added a bright splash of color to their wardrobe this week, joining advocates across the nation in wearing orange to mark Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. The unified look serves as a powerful visual reminder that our community stands behind survivors and is committed to ending the cycle of abuse among young people.
Every February, this national movement brings together youth and advocates to shed light on a topic that often stays in the shadows. This year, the focus is centered on a simple but profound truth: “Real Love Respects.”
Why “Real Love Respects” Matters
Chosen by the love is respect National Youth Council, this year’s theme emphasizes that respect is the non-negotiable foundation of any healthy relationship. In a world where media and pop culture often glamorize “toxic” traits or send mixed signals about vulnerability, clarifying what healthy love looks like is more important than ever.
The statistics highlight a sobering reality for students in the U.S.:
1 in 10 high school students report experiencing physical or sexual dating violence in the last year.
1 in 5 survivors report experiencing digital abuse or harassment.
Over 50% of college students admit they find it difficult to identify dating abuse or know how to help a friend in need.
Breaking the Silence
By wearing orange, Lassen Family Services aims to spark conversations that can save lives. Education and advocacy are the primary tools for helping teens distinguish between healthy boundaries and controlling behaviors. Whether it’s physical, emotional, or digital, abuse has no place in the lives of our youth.
Need Help or Information?
If you or someone you know is experiencing dating violence, or if you simply want to learn more about how to support the young people in your life, Lassen Family Services is here to help. Call 1.530.257.5004 or Toll-Free: 1.888.289.5004. You can visit their website by clicking here.
