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posted on 3/20/20

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, all bars and restaurants in Illinois must close to the public through at least March 30. The Centers for Disease Control has recommended that gatherings of 50 or more people be closed for the next eight weeks. Many employers have required employees to work from home and not come into work. Gyms, churches, and other community centers have all closed.

Experts Warn of Increased Domestic Violence Amid Coronavirus Isolation

When people and families are forced to isolate and refrain from attending religious services and public recreational events, for some the results of isolation from others can be devastating. Our current state of coronavirus isolation will likely lead to a spike in domestic violence incidents, according to domestic violence service providers.

People who test positive for Coronavirus or who have been in contact with someone who has coronavirus must self-isolate at home for at least 14 days. When someone has the tendency to easily lose their temper coupled with the pressure of intense isolation can cause friction within the home and lead to domestic violence.

Many middle-class and working-class families were already living paycheck-to-paycheck before the coronavirus pandemic began. Now, with schools closing down and many workplaces closing down, parents may be extremely worried about making enough money to pay their bills. Many parents have been left without childcare. Trying to work from home with noisy children amid increasing financial pressures with no end in sight can create explosive situations that could lead to incidents of domestic violence.

Coronavirus Isolation Creates Additional Mental Health Challenges

Economically and mentally challenging situations such as a global pandemic usually cause a spike in domestic violence rates. Human beings are not designed for the constant stress and anxiety of the constant barrage of uncertain and fear mongering news or to be isolated from other humans for long periods of time. We are social creatures whose mental health depends on interacting with people in the world around us.

People who may be tempted to engage in domestic violence behavior against their partners or family members may feel more emotional and financial pressure while being trapped at home. They may be more likely to take out stress on their victims who are trapped in quarantine with them.

Mandatory isolation of domestic violence victims can increase their exposure to domestic violence. In many cases, the main outlet of domestic violence victims is working outside of the home and enjoying meaningful relationships with co-workers and friends.

If You are Facing Domestic Violence Charges, We Can Help

At Glasgow & Olsson, we understand that people make mistakes, especially under extremely stressful situations like the coronavirus pandemic. If you are facing domestic violence charges in Illinois, our nationally recognized and award-winning criminal defense law firm can help. We will give you the skilled legal defense you deserve. Contact our Cook County law office today to schedule your initial consultation.