2020 Was a Record Year for Domestic Violence Against Women in the US
The year 2020 will be remembered for many reasons—the global pandemic, economic downturn, and collective uncertainty. But beneath the headlines was a quieter, more devastating crisis: a surge in domestic violence against women.
With lockdowns trapping victims with abusers, support systems stretched thin, and stress at an all-time high, 2020 became a record year for intimate partner violence in the United States. This article explores what happened, why it escalated, and what can be done to protect and empower women moving forward.
A Shadow Pandemic: Domestic Violence During COVID-19
As COVID-19 spread across the globe, the home—often seen as a place of safety—became a site of danger for many women. UN Women referred to the surge in domestic abuse as a “shadow pandemic,” with reports of violence increasing dramatically as communities locked down.
In the US:
- The National Domestic Violence Hotline received a spike in calls and messages, many from women trapped at home with their abusers.
- Some states reported a 20–30% increase in domestic violence calls in the early months of lockdown.
- Shelters and emergency services were overwhelmed, and many survivors had limited access to help due to restrictions.
Why Did Domestic Violence Surge in 2020?
The pandemic created a perfect storm of stressors and isolation. Key contributing factors included:
- Lockdowns and isolation: Women were physically unable to leave abusive households or seek outside help.
- Economic pressure: Job losses and financial instability created added tension, often escalating abusive behaviour.
- Reduced access to support: Many shelters, legal services, and clinics operated at limited capacity or closed temporarily.
- Increased alcohol and substance use: Heightened substance abuse is closely linked to increased domestic violence.
- Children at home: With schools closed, both victims and abusers were under added stress with children present 24/7.
For many women, there was simply no escape, even as violence escalated in frequency and severity.
Alarming Statistics from 2020
Some of the data from 2020 reveals the scale of the crisis:
- According to the CDC, 1 in 4 women in the US experiences severe intimate partner violence in their lifetime.
- In 2020, law enforcement agencies across cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and Houston reported spikes in domestic violence-related arrests and 911 calls.
- A study published in the Journal of Family Violence found that over 50% of surveyed domestic abuse survivors reported an increase in abuse severity during lockdown.
Many experts believe that these figures underrepresent the real toll, as many victims were unable to safely report abuse during isolation.
Impact on Women of Colour and Marginalised Communities
Women of colour, immigrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, and disabled women faced even greater barriers during the pandemic. These included:
- Language and cultural barriers to accessing help
- Lack of internet access for virtual counselling or legal support
- Increased fear of law enforcement or deportation among immigrant survivors
These intersecting factors meant that some of the most vulnerable women were left with the fewest options.
Challenges Faced by Support Services
While some support services adapted quickly to remote models, others struggled. Common challenges included:
- Reduced shelter capacity due to social distancing rules
- Delays in court hearings and restraining orders
- Burnout among frontline workers and advocates
Hotlines and virtual support platforms became critical lifelines, but gaps remained—especially in rural or low-income areas.
Signs of Domestic Abuse to Look For
It’s important for friends, neighbours, and family members to recognise signs of abuse, particularly when victims may not speak out:
- Withdrawal from social contact or online communication
- Visible injuries or frequent “accidents”
- Sudden control over finances, phone, or mobility
- Expressions of fear or walking on eggshells
Trust your instincts—reaching out with empathy can save a life.
How Survivors Coped During the Pandemic
Despite the dangers, many survivors found innovative ways to seek help:
- Using code words during medical or grocery appointments
- Accessing help via text or online chat platforms
- Temporarily relocating to friends’ homes or hotels
Organisations also created discreet mobile apps and social media campaigns to reach those in danger.
Rebuilding in the Aftermath
As lockdowns eased, some women were finally able to escape abusive situations. However, recovery—both emotional and practical—is a long process.
Steps to support survivors include:
- Expanded funding for shelters and transitional housing
- Trauma-informed counselling and mental health care
- Accessible legal support to pursue restraining orders and custody arrangements
Survivors need more than just safety—they need long-term empowerment, stability, and community support.
Government and NGO Response
Some promising responses to the 2020 crisis include:
- The US Congress allocated emergency funding for domestic violence shelters
- Organisations like the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) ramped up digital safety initiatives
- Public awareness campaigns used social media, TV, and influencers to spread prevention messages
However, many advocates stress that consistent, year-round funding—not just crisis response—is necessary.
Internal Links to Related Resources
- Alarming State of Teenage Depression in the US
- COVID-19 and Mental Health Disorders
- Explore All Mental Health and Women's Safety Articles
FAQs: Domestic Violence in the Pandemic
Q1. Why did domestic violence increase in 2020?Lockdowns, financial stress, isolation, and lack of support services made it harder for victims to escape or seek help.
Q2. How can I help someone I suspect is being abused?Approach them gently, offer support, and direct them to helplines or shelters. Avoid confrontation with the abuser.
Q3. Are there anonymous ways to report domestic violence?Yes. The National Domestic Violence Hotline allows anonymous calls and chats. Some states offer anonymous online reporting tools.
Q4. What resources exist in the UK or other countries?In the UK, Refuge and Women’s Aid offer 24/7 support. Most countries have national hotlines and local NGOs supporting women.
Q5. What if the survivor doesn’t want to leave?Leaving is complex and dangerous. Support their decisions, provide options, and ensure they know they’re not alone.
Final Words
The surge in domestic violence during 2020 revealed how vulnerable women are when systems fail to protect them. As we rebuild from the pandemic, we must also commit to safeguarding those who live in fear inside their own homes. It’s not just a women’s issue—it’s a human rights issue.
Support, funding, education, and awareness are the keys to ensuring that no woman is ever forced to suffer in silence again.