All forms of domestic abuse impact health and well-being
Domestic abuse is on the rise in 2020. Physical abuse is an obvious risk to health and well-being, not to mention the very life of the abused. Emotional abuse is detrimental to the mental health of the abused. Of course, domestic abuse can also impact physical health. Many times emotional abuse precedes physical abuse.

Being abused makes it much more likely for psychological and physical illnesses to occur. Anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, acute stress disorder, impact mental health. Moreover, the general deterioration of health due to stress are all risks that a victim of abuse may face. Abuse can lead to lower self-esteem or even alcohol and drug dependency. As a result, the mental and physical health of the abused is also under attack.

Mandatory lockdowns to flatten the curve of COVID-19 have, unfortunately, created a new problem for people who experience abuse. The problem? Being trapped at home with their abuser. Appointments, errands, and other trips outside the home may be a momentary escape for the abused. During the pandemic, these outings are likely not happening.

According to reports, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is reporting an ever-increasing number of calls. In New York, officials are working to increase the number of resources available to the abused.

Finding Your Voice
Mannette Morgan is on a mission to stop the cycle of abuse within our society, an enormous undertaking. In fact, she dreams of a society that is free from abuse.
To attain this, we need to step up and face the reality of abuse within our society, communities, and even within our own families. Burying our heads in the sand or sweeping abuse under the carpet isn't the answer.
This is why Mannette is my guest in today's podcast episode shedding light on domestic abuse. You can listen to this episode by using the player above or by going anywhere podcasts are available.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911. If you are looking for help from an abusive situation, look for resources on Mannette's website, which includes all the organizations and resources she mentions in this episode. As Mannette mentions, she answers the emails of readers looking for help.

In addition, for questions on abuse take a look at this Help Guide. Mannette would also like to encourage you with her ABCs for Life, which is a free download on her website; you don't even have to enter your email.

If you’re experiencing abuse or partner violence and need help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or you can chat with an advocate on their website. 

In conclusion, if you are a friend of someone who is being abused, please be careful in sharing resources as they may be "monitored" by their abuser. Texts, emails, and browsing history could be a source of fuel for the abuser that leads to more abuse. In other words, when reaching out to encourage, be careful not to hurt someone who is hurting.
About the author: Mannette Morgan
Mannette Morgan is an inspirational speaker, author, and abuse survivor who inspires others to rise above adversity and strive for a better life. After 30 years of intense self-work,