COVID-19: What it means for our most vulnerable

The hidden reality of violence facing many individuals could be devastating as we face lockdown, isolation and being cut off from the outside world.

We mustn't forget those who will be confronting this situation alone, whether they be the partner of an abuser, or the children of abusive parents.

How will they find relief, comfort and escape from their reality.

Health authorities have warned that as jobs become obsolete, we could see tensions heightened as a result and as a lockdown further looms in Australia, many will be cut off from support.

The sad reality is many victims of abuse already struggle to find support and as drastic measures take place, this could totally cut off victims from the desperate resources they may need.

Part of the problem authorities have cited is 'control', men in particular often need to feel in control of their environment, not to say this is a negative in itself, but when certain men feel out of control they react violently.

Not being able to provide for a family, dealing with unemployment and uncertainty could drive a lot of men to alcohol and drugs to cope with the current situation before us.

Domestic violence plagues many nations and has been a rising problem throughout Australia.

Many states are facing further implementation of lockdown measures, with a majority of all non-essential activity being forced to shut down.

This has devastated industries across the nation, as casual workers in hospitality and retail sectors have all lost their jobs overnight, with many other companies laying off staff in the thousands.

How this will relate to home life and how those who already have a tendency for abuse will respond, is a great cause for concern.

The bushfire period has already put an incredible amount of pressure on Australia families, which many are still recovering from the damage and trying to rebuild their lives.

The biggest worry will be that the abuse will go under the radar, rearing its ugly head in the months and years to come.

Domestic violence tends to occur six to seven months after a major incident, so what should we be expecting.

According to police statistics, the problem has only risen, and increased reporting and awareness is revealing the true extent of its prevalence.

Crime statistics just in the state of Victoria showed family related incidents have risen by 6.6 per cent in the past 12 months, with the rate of family incidents increasing by 4.4 per cent per 100,000 people.

Whether or not this means more victims are reporting crimes to police could be one of the benefits of increased numbers, however increases are generally viewed as a troubling indicator.

If family violence is already rising, then how much more will it potentially increase.

So, what can everyday people like you and me do, what can be done about such a hidden tragedy.

Raise your self-awareness of the issue.

Perhaps it could be researching how prevalent it is in your own community and understanding the factors that may surround it.

Finding organisations, research articles and resources are a great way to begin, not shying away from the hard truths will be the best way we can reach out and ensure those who are suffering won’t be forgotten.

With more light shone on the issue, it will be forced to reveal itself from the shadows, hopefully encouraging more brave victims to come forward.

If we all keep those who are at risk in mind and remember those who do not have a voice, we will have a chance at ensuring the worst doesn’t come to pass.