What Can Victims of Domestic Violence Do During A Time Like Now?

By: Fabian Osorio / Staff Writer

The spread of COVID-19 in the United States is having a negative impact on most Americans, but victims of domestic violence are much more burdened by the pandemic.

During the current crisis, people have been prohibited from going out and some may have found themselves sheltering in place together with an abuser. Most abuse victims may find it harder now to reach out for help.  

Miguel De Grandy, Chairman of the Miami-Dade County Domestic Violence Oversight Board, said to Miami Herald that he was not surprised that domestic violence arrests had gone down during the pandemic. He said that the victims were scared to ask for help because they didn’t know what would result from it. 

On the other hand, FIU psychologist Dionne Stephens said to FIU News that the National Domestic Violence Hotline had reported an increased volume of calls to their victims’ support hotline. She said that this was a pattern expert had witnessed during previous times of national upheaval such as 9/11, 2008 recession and intense hurricane seasons.

April 2020 marked the 19^th anniversary of National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM). The Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) supported states and territory coalitions across the nation to promote collaboration among the diverse teams that played vital roles in protecting women and others from violence.

According to the United States Department of Justice, courts, law enforcement, advocates, and others use technology in very innovative ways during these unprecedented times. Some court systems, including Florida, use phone and internet to allow people to “appear” at their hearings, thereby allowing the legal process to continue.

But how can someone help his/her family member or friend who is involved in an abusive relationship? Dr. Stephens provided FIU News with the insight into what victims and their loved ones can do to help during the pandemic.

According to her, it is important that people who find themselves in a domestic abuse situation realize that they are not alone and there are options for them. Their willingness to use these options will depend on where they are in their ability to take the next steps. 

Dr. Stephens understands that the National Domestic Violence Hotline call center can be intimidating. She said to FIU News that callers can talk to advocates who speak over 200 languages. She emphasized that all calls are free and confidential.

If victims cannot speak on the phone because it is unsafe, Dr. Stephens recommends using another real-time and confidential support option. There is live chat service which provides the victims with unrecorded communication – the hotline “chat with us.”

For FIU students and staff, the Victim Empowerment Program (VEP) provides free confidential assistance to whoever has been victimized through threatened or actual violence to support their healing process. 

Being exposed to COVID-19 or remaining in an abusive situation, it is difficult to decide which is a greater risk, Dr. Stephens said to FIU News. But what can the victims of domestic violence do during this pandemic?

According to her, this is a decision each person has to make based on their individual situation. Fortunately, there are advocates available to help figure out what options are out there and what is best for each individual. She said to FIU News.  

If you require assistance from advocates, shelters or support groups, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).