The COVID-19 pandemic has been daunting and disruptive in many ways. One area that has gotten the attention of persons involved in human rights organizations is the increase in domestic or intimate partner violence.
Prior to the pandemic, studies show that one in four women and one in ten men were the victims of domestic violence. The post-pandemic numbers are much harder to define but there is significant evidence that we should be concerned about what is happening.
Possible Reasons For The Increase in Domestic Violence
According to health experts, one factor that has influenced the increase in domestic violence is prolonged isolation. While the stay-at-home and work-from-home orders are helpful for reducing the spread of the virus, they have also forced persons to stay home more.
Prior to the pandemic, having the abuser outside of the home reduced the likelihood of abusive episodes.
Being forced to stay at home has also removed options that abusers typically used to relieve their stress. That means they might be even more likely to take out their frustrations at home. Unfortunately, the forced isolation also affects how the victims of domestic abuse can cope.
Another factor is the loss of control that abusers will experience. The pandemic has taken a lot of decisions out of the hands of the people. Persons no longer have control over where they can go, what they can do, or even their financial situation.
Since abusers are already driven by the need for control, they may try to compensate for this loss by becoming stricter on their partners.
Finally, the pandemic has increased the incidents of substance and alcohol abuse. While persons might be using these avenues as ways to deal with their stress, they’re also more likely to lose control with their partners. That means even those who have not shown signs of being abusive before could start.
Typical Signs of Domestic Violence
Domestic violence can take different forms. There might be physical, emotional, sexual, or even financial abuse. Some of the signs that you need to look out for include:
Of course, the signs listed above are most likely to apply to persons who had not experienced violence in their relationship before the pandemic. Those who have already seen signs of abuse can expect the abusive behavior to worsen because of the isolation and added stress of the pandemic.
How to Cope With Domestic Violence
Your options for dealing with abusive behavior from a partner can vary. If you see the situation escalating to violence, experts suggest moving to an area of safety while avoiding the bathroom or kitchen.
It’s recommended that you stay there until things are safer. Removing yourself from the relationship entirely requires more planning and assistance from others.
During your planning, make sure you have access to important documents like birth certificates, social security cards, health insurance, and passports. Unless you already have a place to stay and access to your bank account, cash will also be handy.
It’s best for you to have help from a trusted friend or relative but if you don’t, do as much research as possible on domestic violence shelters or organizations. While the pandemic has affected how they can reach out to others, it’s still possible to get help. They can be contacted by phone or even online.
Even after getting out of the situation, you may still need therapy to deal with everything. Fortunately, many therapists offer online sessions so you can get the support you need without leaving where you feel safe.
It has always been difficult to get out of an abusive relationship. The current pandemic has made things even worse.
If you need help to leave intimate partner violence, seek out as many resources as you can. As the pandemic continues, many shelters and online hotlines have found ways to adapt so they can provide the help you’ll need.
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