Domestic Violence and the 2020 Pandemic
“You can recognise survivors of abuse by their courage. When silence is so very inviting, they step forward and share their truth so others know they aren’t alone.” ― Jeanne McElvaney
Now, more than ever, people are stepping out to the light in order to share their individual domestic violence experience(s). As individuals, we have evolved to be able to openly express empathy, sympathy and genuine interest in the suffering of others. Although, some of us, are still playing catch-up, the majority of self-developed and educated people have learnt how to further tap into these emotions to assist both themselves and others.
The pandemic that took the world by storm in 2020 has now opened flood gates to the stories of men & women that have suffered and/or are suffering domestic violence all around the world!
We now have more to say and choose not to turn a blind eye and dismiss the people that fall victim to domestic violence. Unfortunately, this new and widely spread pandemic (Covid-19) has also opened many doors to various forms of abuse. Whilst being kept a part, meant that we were keeping together, this was not the case with most abuse victims. As it meant that they were forced to be locked in with the very people that was abusing them. ‘Lock down’ became the new daily term used widely in Victoria (Australia) and unfortunately created a ripple effect in isolating victims from the outside world.
A few weeks earlier, the Australian news touched on the increasing number of suicide rates that were on ‘at least’ a 25% rise, since this pandemic began in March of 2020. While these figures fall on deaf ears for some, they are most certainly concerning enough to delve further into (ABC News, 2020). When attempting to tap into the statistical data today, the numbers that one can come across may have already increased. As a therapist and a citizen of both Australia and the world, I believe that we should all assist one another during these very difficult times.
‘We need to work with people’
All people from various parts of the world should come together and put forward their own unique experience(s), expertise and voice to action. Whether you are a teacher, a lawyer, a counsellor, a psychologist, a psychotherapist or just another individual that cares enough to try and make a difference, the world needs you.
We need to all form ‘clusters’ of humanity and ‘clusters’ of love. All people should work as a unit towards a greater purpose. Become a part of the cluster to say STOP to domestic abuse today.
Ms. Melis Topsahin
BACJ (Hons); Dip. Couns.
