January is National Stalking Awareness Month (NSAM)
January is Stalking Awareness Month – Know the Signs, Take Action
National Stalking Awareness Month (NSAM), a time to shine a light on a serious and often overlooked crime. Stalking is not just an inconvenience, it’s a form of harassment that can have lasting emotional, psychological, and physical consequences.
At Donegal Women’s Centre, we are committed to raising awareness, supporting survivors, and helping our community understand the importance of taking stalking seriously.
What is Stalking?
Stalking involves repeated, unwanted behaviors that cause fear or distress. These behaviors can include:
Following or showing up uninvited
Excessive messaging, calls, or emails
Monitoring your social media or online activity
Threatening or intimidating behaviour
Often, stalking is perpetrated by someone the victim knows, and in many cases, it can be a predictor of more serious violence.
Millions of people experience stalking every year, yet it remains under-reported.
Victims are often left feeling isolated, frightened, and unsure of where to turn for help.
Documenting incidents and seeking support can make a crucial difference in safety and legal protection.
What You Can Do:
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all stalking behaviors, dates, times, messages, and incidents.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels wrong, it probably is. Your feelings of unease are valid.
Seek Support: Contact local services like Donegal Women’s Centre or national organisations, including the National Stalking Resource Center. Reaching out is a sign of strength.
Why Awareness Matters
The goal of Stalking Awareness Month is to educate the public, break the silence, and support survivors. By talking openly about stalking, we can reduce stigma, help victims feel less alone, and ensure they know there are safe avenues for help.
If you or someone you know is experiencing stalking, don’t wait. Help is available, and you are not alone.
Contact Donegal Women’s Centre today for advice, support, or to speak to a trained professional.
