Preventing Violence and Suicide Within the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic – Courses of Action

Preventing Violence and Suicide Within the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic – Courses of Action Preventing Violence and Suicide Within the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Courses of Action May 8, 2020 Notice This document was drafted in response to a request made in the context of the COVID-19 public health emergency. [...] At the same time, the impact of the pandemic, lockdowns and distancing measures on mental health and well-being are being increasingly documented, and a consensus has emerged to the effect that the psychosocial impacts of the current public health crisis must be mitigated, both clinically and at the population level (6–8). [...] Violence against children and child maltreatment Assessment of the situation In the current context of childcare and school closures and the suspension of activities outside the family household, the social environment of children is changing rapidly and generates concerns about their safety (25). [...] Domestic violence Assessment of the situation Domestic violence affects a significant number of people in Québec, with serious consequences on the health and well-being of the victims and the children exposed to such violence. [...] Courses of action In addition to monitoring the crime and community safety situation, various actions can be taken to mitigate the impacts on the communities and to maintain the security and the feeling of safety by minimizing disorders and incivilities.