Dealing with Two Problems – Domestic Violence and COVID-19

Is the coronavirus quarantine responsible for an increase in domestic violence? Be prepared and protect yourself from harm.

Recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that one in seven men and one in four women will experience domestic violence during their lives. It is possible that these numbers about to change due to the government-mandated and self-imposed quarantines that people are experiencing. Some sources believe that high levels of emotions, lack of money, and limited options for recreation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic are leading to more incidents of domestic violence. What can you do to protect yourself?

Look for These Risk Factors in Your Relationship

Domestic violence often happens between two people who love each other deeply. Most of the time, it isn’t that they want to hurt each other or that one of them wants to hurt the other. Life simply becomes too difficult to handle. Harsh words are said. Hands draw up into fists, and people get hurt. What can you do?

Watch for these signs that your loved one is struggling with self-control, and you are afraid of domestic violence during COVID-19:

• Harsh words are said more frequently.

• The individual rarely acts lovingly or pleasantly.

• Threats against you or the children are made nearly every day or week.

• Your loved one begins to raise hands in anger toward you or the children.

• Your loved one exhibits cruelty to the pets.

• The individual grabs your arm or hand in anger or frustration.

• Your loved one begins to throw things while screaming.

What Can You Do to Protect against an Incident of Domestic Violence during COVID-19?

If you are worried about domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic, you need to take steps to protect yourself. Be proactive and prepared by doing each of the following:

• Pick a safe room to go to if violence seems a possibility.

• Memorize any phone numbers you may need while hiding.

• Talk to a trusted family member, friend, or religious person for support.

• Create a “code word” to indicate you need immediate help when talking with your trusted person.

• Create a go-to bag that includes such essentials as money, credit cards, bank account numbers, safe deposit box keys, health insurance cards, and other important items such as medications and spare car keys.

• Teach your children how to protect themselves by explaining the steps you have planned.

Create a Support System

Loss of employment and financial support has forced people to turn to social services for help. Food banks and shelters are overwhelmed already. Be sure to have somewhere specific to go if you need to flee your home.

The link between an increase in domestic violence and COVID-19 is a realistic one. Stress and worry are getting the best of even the calmest individuals. People are simply spending more time with the people they love, and relationships become strained. This scenario can lead to problems. If you have been a victim of domestic violence and need help, please contact someone now. Help is available, even with restrictions set in place because of coronavirus outbreak.