4 Tips for Domestic Abuse Survivors During COVID-19

The past few months have truly changed our society. Thanks to COVID-19, the pandemic has necessarily shut us in together. For some, this means more time with loved ones. After all, cherished family time is often hard to come by in this frenzied world. For others, being quarantined with family is a nightmare.

The coronavirus has created a siege-like state, not unlike any other disaster might. This state, compounded by the fact that the lockdown has led to widespread job loss and insecurity, creates the perfect storm to escalate pre-existing intimate partner violence.

An increase in domestic violence has also been documented during this pandemic. The isolation of couples has also led to difficulty for victims to be able to access and seek help and escape the escalating abuse.

Follow these tips by the World Health Organization if you or someone you know or love is facing domestic violence during this time.

• Identify a neighbour, friend, relative, colleague, or shelter to go to in case you need to leave the house immediately for safety.

• Have a plan for how you will exit the house safely and how you will reach there (e.g., transport).

• Keep a few essential items (e.g., identification documents, phone, money, medicines, and clothes) available, and a list of telephone numbers in case of an emergency.

•If possible, develop a code with a trusted neighbour so they can come to your aid in case of an emergency. Stay safe during this pandemic, both by staying home and despite staying home.

Dr. Bhooma Bhayana is a family physician in London and the mother of two young men and a proud grandmother of two! She continues to find wonder and enjoyment in family practice despite more than 30 years on the job!

Dr. Bhooma Bhayana is a family physician in London and the mother of two young men and proud grandmother of three! She continues to find wonder and enjoyment in family practice despite more than 30 years on the job!