Economic worries have affected much of our society. Most of us are quite familiar at this point with the primary areas of impact.

The credit markets have shriveled a bit and credit availability may have changed forever.

Home prices in many parts of the country have dropped dramatically.

Many Americans have found themselves out of work as the economy has slowed and businesses have been forced to reduce their workforces.

But one of the more ugly sides of the economy downturn — and one that isn’t as easily visible — is the rise in domestic violence.

It makes sense when you think about it. As Americans struggle with financial issues in their lives, the stress levels go up significantly.

And with stress, many Americans lash out against the ones closest to them. The result is that children and spouses feel the brunt of the frustration and anger fueled by the economic problems.

It’s a problem that has been around for centuries, and one that can only be combated by education and awareness.

Victims need to know they have options to get away from an abuser.

Friends and family members need to know that realizing there’s a problem and not saying anything, isn’t being polite, it’s being an accessory to the crime.

The economy will eventually turn around, but until it does, we all must be vigilant to look for and confront domestic violence as it rears its ugly head.