It’s out there. It is rarely even whispered in conversation. But it is ever present. In this time of lockdown, of physical distancing. abuse is likely a rising, silent epidemic.

For those of us with loving partners, loving families, the lockdown is hard. Imagine if you were a child who’s only safe place was school and after-school clubs. Or perhaps Grandma and Grandpa’s house. Now you can’t access those, now you must stay at home with the person(s) who abuse you.

The lockdown reduces space and freedom. It also increases anxiety, fear, and jobs (income). These can all be triggers for rage and abuse. And now we have locked people into their homes with their abusers. The lockdown has made the nightmare even worse for some of us.

Unfortunately, I don’t have any answers other than to connect with your local charity or government service addressing domestic and child abuse. They may be open as hopefully they are considered an essential service. These organisations have always been underfunded and undervalued. Talk to them, figure out how you can help.

We must figure out ways for our society to work for the most vulnerable. Especially in times of crisis.

The choice is up to us.

Photo by Sydney Sims