With the current pandemic regarding COVID-19, those who live with abusers may be stuck in an environment that is not safe. Domestic violence is a fact of life and for many, being able to leave their house for work or school is the only respite that they get from the abuser.
Being forced to quarantine with a partner is going to be a challenge for many. This may not even be physical abuse but using the virus as a scare tactic against their partners.
If you know if anyone who is in an abusive relationship, please monitor them discreetly and let them know that helplines are still available!
According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, here are some things you can share with them.
This is somewhere you can go or what you will do after you escape.
Just taking a few minutes each day to breathe and pull yourself together.
“Reach out for help”
Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline.
For any victims and survivors who need support, they are there for you, 24/7. Call 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-799-7233 for TTY, or if you’re unable to speak safely, you can log onto thehotline.org or text LOVEIS to 22522.
Additional helplines include…
- The National Sexual Assault Hotline is 24/7, confidential and free: 800.656.HOPE (4673) and through chat.
- The StrongHearts Native Helpline for domestic/sexual violence is available 7am-10pm CT, confidential, and specifically for Native communities: 1−844-762-8483.
- The Trans LifeLine for peer support for trans folks 9am-3am CT: 1-877-565-8860 This hotline is staffed exclusively by trans operators is the only crisis line with a policy against non-consensual active rescue.
- National Parent Helpline Monday -Friday 12pm-9am CT emotional support and advocacy for parents: 1-855-2736.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be contacted at 1-800-273-8255.
- For U.S., Canadian and U.K. individuals, you can contact the Crisis Text Line for guidance by texting HOME to 741741 (US), 686868 (Canada) or 85258 (UK).
For more international text-line options, click here.