Someone was telling me there is a client at their work who makes appointments but doesn’t always show up. When they phone to ask if they are still coming, the call either goes to voice mail or it is answered but they hang up. My friend expressed their frustration trying to work with this client and wonder why when they reach out, they are stonewalled.

I don’t know what is going on with this person. But I noticed in the past year when I have gone for doctor’s appointments and when I had my surgery several months ago, a staff member and the doctor asked if I feel safe at home. I said yes I do. However my guess is, not everyone does. Either domestic violence is on the rise or more healthcare institutions are trying to address it. I have never been the victim of domestic violence but I know people who have. Long ago I helped a friend move out of the apartment they shared with their abuser. When I arrived at the home, their face and parts of their body were covered with scratches and bruises. It was very disturbing. I also had a former coworker suddenly pass away a few months ago. Her abuser ended her life.

This client could be very flaky and not good with keeping a schedule. But they could also be monitored and controlled by another person. We will never know. If you are in an unpleasant situation or know someone who is, the National Domestic Violence Hotline number is 800-799-7233. It operates 24/7 and is offered in English, Spanish and over 200 language interpretations.