“What matters in help-seeking and disclosure intent of intimate partner violence during the COVID-19 pandemic: Similarities and differences across demographic groups”

The COVID-19 pandemic increased Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) rates internationally and disrupted health services. Physical health concerns were prominent due to the direct impact of IPV. However, beyond physical injuries the pandemic also exacerbated other risk factors linked to IPV, such as deteriorating mental health, which can further hinder help-seeking for IPV. As access to health care services became more restricted, those experiencing IPV faced even greater barriers to help-seeking. No study has examined the factors related to IPV help-seeking intent during the earliest stage of the pandemic; therefore, the aim of this study was: To examine the comparative impact of the COVID-19 burden and health factors on IPV help-seeking and disclosure intent using quantitative data. A cross-sectional survey, named The Health and IPV Study (HIPVS) was conducted in the USA in April 2020. Among other health-related constructs, HIPVS assessed historical, recent, and current health status (mental and physical), IPV (victimization and perpetration), IPV help-seeking and disclosure intent. Subgroup analyses were done by gender, age and income level. Generalized Linear Mixed Effects models were used (N=1346). Number of COVID-19 cases and PTSD symptomology predicted higher help-seeking intent, but experience of violence correlated with lower disclosure intent. There were significant differences among demographic groups and inconsistency in the reporting of violence was a notable issue. The findings on mental health support the knowledge in existing literature. The most important limitation was the phrasing of the questions, particularly those which focused on intent instead of behavior. Mental and medical healthcare providers should prioritize IPV screening. Access to care should be maximized through continued improvement/expansion of online service provision and changes in healthcare policy that remove barriers (such as lapse in medical insurance coverage or financial burden).