Where to Get Help If You Are Isolated With a Rape Partner
The idea of spending most of your time at home for several weeks during the coronavirus pandemic is enough to make you tired of everyone in your home. But if you live with someone who is behaving abusively, staying at home may be more uncomfortable or even dangerous for you.
Domestic violence support organizations are posting reminders of their hotlines and text support options, recognizing that isolation with the abuser can exacerbate an already tense situation.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 1-800-799-7233. You can also visit thehotline.org or write LOVEIS on 22522. Lawyers can help you discuss options and provide resources to help you write a safety plan.
The organization has a web page with information on how to keep yourself safe during an outbreak.
According to the NDVH, among the behaviors people might have experienced during this time:
- Abuse partners may not bring essential items, such as hand sanitizer or disinfectants.
- Abusive partners may share misinformation about the pandemic to control or scare survivors, or to prevent them from seeking appropriate medical attention if they have symptoms.
- Abusive partners can withhold insurance cards, threaten to cancel coverage, or prevent survivors from seeking medical attention if they need it.
If you need support or information in the aftermath of sexual assault, you can call the national RAINN Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or start an online chat with a Crisis Support Specialist.
Recognizing abusive behavior can be difficult, especially if you are spending a lot of time with someone. Some warning signs to look out for according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence :
- Excessive jealousy or possessiveness
- To humiliate or humiliate you
- Controlling your behavior or your access to basic needs
- Control your finances