In a recent article, the New York Times reported that not only are we fighting the battle against COVID-19, but this pandemic has unleashed a new public health crisis; domestic violence. This particular public health crisis has been seen to be prevalent in Chicago as domestic violence hotlines have reported an upsurge of calls and texts. This was not only noticed by the domestic violence hotline, but the Chicago police department reported a 12% increase in calls related to domestic violence. 

With such a large increase in reports of domestic violence, it raises the question of why the current pandemic has caused such an increase in violence. Dr. Campbell of John Hopkin’s University suggested our increased stress levels may be playing a role in this increase. Stressors such as fear of catching COVID-19, financial stress, job losses, trying to manage a children’s education, and the seclusion from family and friends has put many of us at emotionally vulnerable state.

A second reason this increase may be occurring is due the increased amount of time spent at home. With an increase in time spent at home, there is a greater opportunity for an abusive partner to exert control. This controlling behavior may occur in many ways and it is not limited to physical or sexual abuse, which is a common misconception. For example, an abusive partner may withhold necessary items such as face masks, hand sanitizer, or disinfect impacting their partner's ability to go outside of the home. Further, abusive partners may share misinformation about the pandemic to prevent their partner from seeking medical attention not only if they believe they may have COVID but if they have sustained injuries form their partners abuse. 

During this pandemic, it is essential to watch for warning signs of an abusive partner. A few of the many signs include being verbally or emotionally hurtful, making constant threats, or having episodes of explosive anger. If this is occurring to you there are steps that can be taken including making a safety plan. This safety plan should involve planning for ways to remain safe while in the relationship, how to stay safe when you are planning to leave the relationships, and ways to stay safe after leaving. Additionally, it is important to enlist support from a trusted friend or family member. If you or someone you love is currently experiencing domestic violence and is seeking support, please call 1-800-799-7233. If you are unable to speak safely you can log onto thehotline.org or text LOVEIS to 1-866-331-9474. 

By: Mary Collins, LPC, CADC