In addition to equal or even higher rates of domestic violence occurring in the LGBTQIA community compared to the cisgender and heterosexual community, LGBTQIA people face barriers to leaving abusive relationships that cisgender and heterosexual victims often do not. Domestic violence is most commonly thought of as something that happens to cis women and is committed by cis men. Therefore, most services are geared towards helping cisgender heterosexual women, which can make LGBTQIA victims feel isolated and misunderstood.

Abusive partners may use isolation to increase your dependence on them or limit your ability to access support. If you haven’t come out publicly yet or belong to a religious community, traditional family, or oppressive home environment, fear of what will happen when you reveal your identity might prevent you from seeking help. Abusive partners may try to exert power and control over your life by insulting you based on your insecurities, refusing to respect your pronouns or chosen name, attempting to shame you over how you choose to have sex or threatening to out you to others. Depending on your social circumstances, a small or tight-knit LGBTQIA community could make you feel increasingly isolated if you fear no one will support you because your abuser is well-liked.