Domestic Violence and Employee Productivity: Understanding the Impacts and Supporting Survivors

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects millions of people every year. It not only has devastating physical and emotional consequences for survivors, but it can also have a significant impact on their work and productivity. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, domestic violence costs the U.S. economy $8.3 billion every year, with a significant portion of that cost being lost productivity due to absenteeism, presenteeism, and turnover. 

At CAPSA, we understand the devastating impact of domestic violence on survivors and the importance of supporting them in all areas of their lives, including their work. In this blog post, we will explore the impact of domestic violence on employee productivity and discuss ways that employers can support survivors in the workplace. 

The Impact of Domestic Violence on Employee Productivity 

Domestic violence can have a significant impact on the productivity of survivors. According to a study by the Society for Human Resource Management, nearly 60% of survivors of domestic violence reported that the abuse affected their work performance. The same study found that 21% of survivors had missed work due to domestic violence, and 74% reported that they had been harassed at work by their abuser. 

Additionally, domestic violence can lead to long-term health consequences for survivors, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These conditions can affect a survivor’s ability to concentrate, make decisions, and perform their job duties. 

Supporting Survivors in the Workplace 

Employers can play a crucial role in supporting survivors of domestic violence in the workplace. Here are some ways that employers can support survivors: 

• Implement Domestic Violence Policies: Employers should have policies in place that address domestic violence in the workplace, including providing time off for survivors to seek medical or legal help and offering workplace accommodations to ensure the safety of survivors. 
• Offer Employee Assistance Programs: Employee assistance programs (EAPs) can provide confidential counseling services to employees who are experiencing domestic violence. EAPs can also provide referrals to community resources and support services. 
• Provide Training to Managers and Employees: Employers should provide training to managers and employees to help them recognize the signs of domestic violence and understand how to respond if a co-worker discloses abuse. 
• Create a Safe and Supportive Work Environment: Employers should create a work environment that is safe and supportive for survivors. This can include providing a private space for survivors to make phone calls or take time off for appointments related to domestic violence. 

Domestic violence can have a significant impact on employee productivity, but employers can play a crucial role in supporting survivors in the workplace. By implementing policies and procedures that address domestic violence, offering employee assistance programs, providing training to managers and employees, and creating a safe and supportive work environment, employers can help survivors of domestic violence heal and thrive in all areas of their lives. 

Here to Help 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA.