Response to the shadow pandemic of family violence -the critical role of general practice

Did you know, on average, a GP will have 5 patients affected by family violence enter their practice in any given week?

COVID-19 lockdown conditions have unfortunately increased the likelihood of family violence. Increased isolation, often with the abuser, and being away from support and help-seeking networks can increase the risk of abuse. The pressures of being stuck at home together with little respite puts additional pressure on families. Increased financial distress and unemployment can also be triggers, as can increased alcohol use. 

Health practitioners are the professionals most often told about family violence, even more so than police. Studies show abuse is associated with depression, anxiety, other psychological disorders, drug and alcohol abuse, sexual dysfunction, functional gastrointestinal disorders, headaches, chronic pain and multiple somatic symptoms. Sexual abuse has also been linked with chronic pelvic pain. GPs can identify predisposing risk factors, noting early signs and symptoms of violence. Evidence shows women are open to being asked about their safety at home.
 
Join your peers as we tackle the difficult subject of identifying and supporting patients experiencing family violence. Drawing on a skilled panel consisting of Professor Kelsey Hegarty from University of Melbournes Safer Families Centre and a lived experience speaker, this session will  also cover what support services are available for General practice . 
 
 

Learning outcomes:

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Identify and respond to family violence survivors
• Discuss particular issues during the COVID pandemic of addressing family violence
• Analyse the challenges of also seeing perpetrators and children in general practice