What to do when you’re quarantined unsafely at home
Domestic violence is a problem even when people aren’t quarantined at home with their abusers. Unfortunately, the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is placing already vulnerable people in an even more unsafe situation. As states across the country enact new rules requiring people to stay at home and practice social distancing, victims are finding themselves without their usual support systems.
Whether you’re stuck at home with an abuser yourself, or you know someone who is struggling to keep themselves safe, here are several things to keep in mind.
Victims of domestic violence can still reach out for help
Don’t let COVID-19 stop you from reaching out for help. Many shelters have extended their phone hours during the quarantine and are staffing their virtual hotlines longer as well. Some shelters are also getting creative, housing people in RVs and other less-dense accommodations that still allow for social distancing.
Additionally, the National Domestic Violence Hotline has text capability using a safeword for people to reach out if they’re suffering from domestic violence. Their lines are open 24/7, too.
Counseling offices across the nation, including our therapists at Foundations Counseling, are offering virtual sessions and online therapy. Though it’s not always easy to access a computer or phone in an abusive situation, if you can get to one, there are people ready to help.
Know your legal rights
Every state in the United States of America has laws in place to protect victims of domestic violence (though the language used to describe this type of abuse can vary). During the quarantine, it’s a good idea to check up on the laws in your state, so you know for sure what you can and cannot receive as protection from the law.
In the midst of an abusive situation, it’s not always easy to see how helpful education can be. But, knowledge isn’t just legally beneficial; it can also reassure you and provide a greater sense of control.
Understand your worth
When you’re in an abusive situation, it can destroy your confidence. Many abusers even want you to blame yourself for the abuse rather than accepting responsibility themselves.
It’s so important to remember that it is never, ever okay for someone to hurt you or threaten to hurt you. You did nothing to deserve this behavior, and you cannot control their actions. But, you can remind yourself that you are a good person who did not bring on this abuse.
Spend some time reading articles and resources online that can teach you new ways to reaffirm your self-worth. This is also an excellent time to reach out to friends and family who love you and can remind you of who you are and how much they support you. The point is, remember that you are a loveable human being and that you deserve to be treated with respect and kindness, not violence and anger.
The caring therapists at Foundations Counseling can help you and your family overcome life’s greatest challenges. Contact us today!