The COVID-19 lockdown has impacted nearly every facet of society – including domestic violence. Safety nets for domestic violence have been taken away, as have support systems to help offenders from reoffending.

Representatives in the state are concerned about the impact sheltering in place has had, saying difficulties leaving the home to get away (which can help reduce the incidents of domestic violence that can arise) make it near impossible to relieve over-stressed, frayed nerves.

Right now there is an increased need for mental health services, but just because you’re not leaving your home doesn’t mean you can’t get that help. 

There are some easy things domestic violence offenders can do to keep from offending again and resources in the community that can help — even under stay-at-home orders.

Getting Angry is Normal

As a recovering domestic offender, you have likely heard somewhere along the way that anger is a part of life. You simply can’t avoid getting angry, but you can control how you channel it. So what can you do to try to keep anger from spinning out of control? Here are a few tips…

Look for Ways to Channel Anger

Trying to suppress your anger only makes it worse. One of the best things you can do to help deal with anger is to find a productive way to channel it. You can do that using your anger for a positive outcome such as exercise or to take up hobbies such as woodworking or painting.

Exercise, in particular, is a great outlet since that surge of energy that may be felt when angry can be expressed through physical energy instead of aggression or yelling. Have some sort of physical activity you do each day to help you get rid of all that pent up energy.

Understand Your Triggers

Being stuck at home right now can create a perfect storm for anger and irritability. Family demands, work demands, stress of possibly getting ill, reduced socialization, and teaching children from home can all serve as triggers that flip the anger switch that can be difficult to deal with.

Try to identify your triggers and understand them. That way, you can remind yourself at the moment that something is a trigger for you and shift your focus to something else. 

It’s OK that you experience negative emotions, it’s simply important to understand the triggers for this negativity so you can resolve them and adopt solutions.

Take Breaks

It doesn’t matter if you’re doing chores around the house or working full-time from home, you must set aside time for you to relax and rejuvenate. You may need to work in a daily walk so you can get out and clear your head.

Find Counseling Online

So much can be done through the computer these days. If you feel that you need counseling in order to help you deal with your feelings and anger during the lockdown, then there are many resources available to you in North Carolina for online counseling.

Don’t Be a Repeat Offender

Being a repeat domestic violence offender in North Carolina comes with some severe penalties. In fact, the punishment if found guilty of domestic violence more than once can result in more severe punishments, including felony convictions.

Being on lockdown is no fun for anyone, but when you’re struggling with anger issues it can be even more problematic. Help is out there if you know where to look, so reach out in order to keep your anger in check.