Emotional Abuse During COVID-19

Emotional abuse is a serious type of domestic violence found in many relationships. Like other types of abuse, it is a tool the abuser uses to maintain control over their partner. Here are some red flags of emotional abuse:

Does your partner –

  • Insult you or call you names?
  • Continually criticize or belittle you?
  • Tell you that you aren't good enough? (smart enough, pretty enough, etc)
  • Blame you for their outbursts?
  • Monitor where you go and who you talk to?
  • Constantly accuse you of cheating on them?

If any of these situations sound familiar, you may be experiencing emotional abuse in your relationship. There is never any excuse to be abusive towards a partner. You do not deserve to be abused.


Emotional Abuse During COVID-19

Financial worries and stress related to the pandemic may be contributing to incidences of emotional abuse. Some new ways we are seeing emotional abuse during the pandemic include –

  • Keeping you away from your children or family under the pretense of social distancing.
  • Using a COVID positive test as a weapon to control you or threaten you.
  • Not allowing you to go to the doctor or get a COVID test.
  • Increased outbursts of verbal abuse.

While fleeing domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic can be more complicated, it is still possible. Your safety is important.


If you are experiencing emotional abuse or any other domestic violence, here are some steps you can take.

Prepare a Safety Plan

A safety plan is a personal plan to help you stay safe in domestic violence. You can find a guide to creating a safety plan here. You can also create a safety plan with an advocate by calling the Peace at Home Family Shelter Crisis Hotline 24/7 at 479.442.9811.


Reach Out for Help

Think about who in your life might be able to offer support for you to talk about what you're experiencing. Do you have friends or family members you can reach out to? If you don't have anyone you trust, you can always confidentially contact a trained advocate at Peace at Home Family Shelter at 479.442.9811.


Trust Yourself

You know what is best for yourself. Trust your instincts about what the best option is for you. Remember that you deserve to be treated with care and respect.



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