For many of us, this year is nothing like we imagined it would be. So many big events, celebrations and even family reunions have been canceled.

Right now, the most privileged of us are safe at home. But that’s not the story for everyone.

For victims of domestic violence, child abuse, and sexual assault, home can be one of the most dangerous places during the COVID-19 crisis. Increased anxiety and depression are also symptoms of self-isolation.

As our community continues to face unprecedented challenges during this pandemic, Family Services has launched a new landing page, strongathome.org, to promote our ongoing services in domestic violence, sexual assault, and counseling.

Our message is simple:

• YOU ARE NOT ALONE

• WE ARE HERE WHEN YOU NEED US.

• THIS IS WHAT WE DO

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE:

While Family Services has not yet seen a visible uptick in the number of local domestic violence reports, our experts at Safe On Seven say they have reason to believe that cases are, in fact, on the rise.

Despite the fact that the number of crisis line calls and walk-ins is down, Safe on Seven Program Manager Meredith Hooks said she believes the number of domestic violence cases is increasing, but the COVID-19 pandemic has made it harder for people to get help.

“Often that crisis line call will be made when the abuser is at work or when she’s taking the children to school; none of that is happening right now. People are working from home or they’ve lost their jobs,” Hooks said.

If you are experiencing a crisis involving domestic violence, please call the 24-hour crisis line. Help is just a phone call away.  336-723-8125

SEXUAL ASSAULT

The truth is, at times like these, victims and survivors of sexual assault could be isolated and confined in or near their homes, where sexual abuse may be taking place.

We also know that because of the potential close proximity of perpetrators, coming forward to report incidents of sexual assault can sometimes be challenging at times like this.

• Based on 2018-19 data, nearly 2,500 North Carolina children under the age of 18, and more than 6,700 adults were sexually assaulted.
• 28 percent of those victims were assaulted by a relative.
• Another 28 percent were assaulted by an acquaintance.
• 8 out of 10 perpetrators in sexual assault cases are known to the victim.
• 83 percent of sexual assaults occur in or near a victim’s home.

That’s why Family Services domestic violence and sexual assault hotlines stand ready to assist and support.

If you have been violated—in some way—by someone, whether you were assaulted minutes ago, days ago or years ago, Family Services is here to help.  336-722-4457

COUNSELING

As a result of living day after day of this crisis, our friends and neighbors are experiencing unprecedented levels of anxiety and depression. Mental health is really taking center stage in the invisible injuries suffered during this pandemic, as people look for new ways to deal with stress, frustration, and even anger.

In such times it can be very helpful to have someone compassionately listen and help you sort through issues in a confidential manner.

Family Services is open for video-based counseling sessions, and we are accepting new referrals.

We provide an array of outpatient therapy, counseling support and educational programs to help children, adults and families cope with challenges in their lives.

Our therapists address common concerns, including:

• Anxiety and depression
• Stress or anger management
• Relationship difficulties
• Separation and divorce
• Adjustment/transitional issues
• Domestic violence
• Physical and sexual abuse
• Grief and loss
• Parenting/child behavioral concerns
• Trauma
• Workplace issues

To request telehealth (video-based) counseling service, you will be able to leave a message and our Intake Specialist will return your call as soon as possible.  336-722-8173