Domestic Violence in Focus this October
- Lincoln County Community Health Council
- Oct 3
- 4 min read
As October arrives, communities nationwide focus on a range of health priorities, including breast cancer awareness and mental wellness. Notably, Domestic Violence Awareness Month receives special attention, highlighting the hidden struggles that many face behind closed doors. This month emphasizes that safety and well-being are essential components of overall health.
Why Domestic Violence Matters as a Health Issue
Domestic violence is not merely a criminal or social issue — it is a major public health concern. Survivors often endure physical injuries, chronic pain, gastrointestinal disorders, sleep disturbances, and reproductive health complications. The psychological toll may include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidal ideation. By framing domestic violence within a health context, we affirm that safety, dignity, and mental well-being are integral to overall health.
Studies suggest that roughly one in four women and one in nine men in the U.S. experience severe intimate partner violence in their lifetime. Awareness campaigns in October aim not just to inform, but to drive action: stronger prevention, improved support systems, and safer communities.
The Nest: A Vital Lifeline in Ruidoso Downs, NM
In Lincoln County, New Mexico, The Nest Domestic Violence Shelter (operated by HEAL — Help End Abuse for Life) plays a pivotal role in supporting survivors and restoring hope.
It is the only dedicated shelter serving victims of domestic violence in Lincoln County, offering 28 beds and capable of supporting up to 42 women and children on a given day.
Services are free, confidential, and culturally responsive.
Offerings include emergency shelter, 24/7 crisis hotline (866-378-6378, locally 575-378-6378), counseling and behavioral health, legal advocacy, life-skills training, housing support, and children’s programming.
The Nest also maintains a public wish list of needed supplies (towels, personal items, children’s goods, household items) to support those who often arrive with little more than what they can carry.
The Nest remains a cornerstone of support in its region — a place where survivors can find more than safety, but resources, care, and pathways toward recovery.
Hope Harbor: Transitional Support in Capitan, NM
In addition to shelters like The Nest, survivors in our region may also turn to Hope Harbor, a transitional home in Capitan, New Mexico. Hope Harbor operates a Christ-centered, two-year program for women (and their children) escaping domestic violence, aiming to help them rebuild stability and independence.
Hope Harbor describes itself as offering “hope, healing, and supportive guidance” for survivors and their children with a Christian emphasis, including faith-based support.
They offer case management focused on personal goal planning
They offer education in life skills such as: financial literacy, parenting, health and nutrition, personal development, and more
Its transitional housing program spans up to two years, during which residents participate in case management, life-skills training, education and vocational planning, counseling, and personal development.
All services are offered free of charge, but applicants must typically be motivated (e.g. committed to education or job training) and are subject to periodic assessments, including substance abuse testing.
Annual Health Fair — Oct 18, 2025
What & Where
On October 18, 2025, the Annual Health Fair will take place at Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino in Mescalero, NM. This event is open to the public and seeks to connect community members with health education, breast cancer screenings, provider resources, and local service agencies.
Purpose
This year’s Health Fair will weave together general wellness, preventive health, and a Walk for Mental Health Empowerment. Attendees can expect:
Free health screenings (blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, BMI)
Free Flu & Covid shots
3D Mammograms (pre-scheduled appointments required, call 888-204-9214 or IHS patients call 575-464-3888)
Mental health check-ins and counseling referrals
Educational booths on nutrition, fitness, and chronic disease prevention
Legal aid stations for information about protective orders and rights
Children’s health and family wellness stations
Informational materials, giveaways, and light refreshments
By combining resources within a health fair setting, organizers aim to reduce stigma, open doors to conversation, and normalize seeking help as part of holistic health.
Audience & Outreach
The event is targeted to residents of Lincoln County, Mescalero, Ruidoso, and the surrounding areas. Community groups, health providers, non-profits, tribal health services, and local clinics are expected to partner and provide staffing.
Outreach efforts include posters in clinics and community centers, local radio announcements, social media promotion, and coordination with tribal and municipal communication channels.
Why This Matters
Hosting the Health Fair at a high-visibility venue like the Inn of the Mountain Gods helps draw in people who may not ordinarily seek medical or advocacy services. It helps break down barriers, making domestic violence support part of a broader health conversation rather than an isolated topic.
For survivors or those at risk, seeing advocates from the community, legal experts, and healthcare providers all in one place can reduce the friction of seeking help, provide immediate referrals, and create connections across sectors — a critical step toward integrated community care.
Make a Difference this October
October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Raise Awareness
Please help the LCCHC promote and attend the Health Fair! Please share this blog article, follow us on Social Media, and 'share' awareness of our events
Supporting Survivors
Donate items from The Nest’s wish list or fund its operations.
Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE) for emergencies
Volunteer at the Health Fair or with local shelters.
Advocate for legislative and funding support for domestic violence services.
Health Providers & Institutions
Embed domestic violence screening and referral protocols in regular healthcare visits.
Train staff on trauma-informed care and local service networks.
Partner with shelters, legal aid, and counseling services to strengthen referral pathways.
This is an Opportunity to Invest in Yourself
October is more than a symbolic month for health observance — it offers us an opportunity to align wellness, safety, and empowerment under one umbrella at the Annual Health Fair on October 18. We want to see you put your health first. We know that individual healthcare must reach beyond checkups — into homes, relationships, and hearts.
Are you interested in helping the Lincoln County Community Health Council by volunteering for an upcoming event?
Please contact us here.
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