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The Montana Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence is recognizing February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention month.

Several dozen students involved in the state-wide effort to educate people and prevent violence made posters to show their support during a rally in Helena on Wednesday.

Statistics show that one in three adolescent girls in the U.S. is a victim of physical, emotional, or verbal abuse from a dating partner.

Research shows that teen dating violence can contribute to an increased risk of substance abuse, unhealthy weight control behaviors, pregnancy and even suicide.

Capital High School student Maddie Ellis noted, "With, like, obsessive and unwanted texting from actual physical violence to pretty much through the technology and physically and emotionally the abuse is there. I think it's important to bring awareness about it."

The coalition hopes to promote healthy relationships by encouraging students to get the messages out in their communities.

The event was also supported by the Montana Attorney General's office.

Learn more at MCADSV.com.