Domestic violence and IVAC
Get advice tailored to your situation
In-person or telemedicine consultations, anywhere in Quebec.
What forms can domestic violence take?
| Type of violence | Examples |
|---|---|
| Psychological | Put-downs, humiliation, threats, blackmail, isolation from family and friends |
| Verbal | Insults, shouting, intimidation, repeated hurtful remarks |
| Physical | Hitting, shoving, strangulation, objects thrown or broken to frighten |
| Sexual | Forced acts, pressure or coercion, refusing to respect a no |
| Financial | Controlling money, preventing you from working, imposed debts |
| Day-to-day control | Monitoring of your phone and movements, imposed rules, constant fear of the other person's reaction |
What are the effects on health?
The consequences vary from person to person and are not always visible:
- Anxiety, depression and sleep problems
- Post-traumatic stress
- Persistent pain, headaches, digestive problems
- Injuries, sometimes hidden or played down
- Increased use of alcohol, medication or other substances
- Feelings of shame or guilt, or suicidal thoughts
What is IVAC?
IVAC (Indemnisation des victimes d'actes criminels) is the public program that helps victims of criminal offences in Quebec recover. Depending on the file, this help can include psychosocial support, psychotherapy and financial assistance. IVAC decides on eligibility and on the help granted. All official information is on the IVAC website.
How does an IVAC application work?
- No time limit applies to an application related to domestic violence
- You do not have to file a police complaint, and the person does not have to be charged or found guilty
- From age 14, a person can apply on their own
- The application must include a document showing that the offence was disclosed: a certificate from a support worker or professional, a police or support organization document, a health assessment or a copy of a medical record
What can a health professional do?
- Assess your condition and treat what needs treating: injuries, sleep, anxiety, depression
- Record in your file what you choose to share
- Complete, if your situation allows, the certificate form required by IVAC
- Refer you to psychological support and plan follow-up
Your file is confidential. The law provides a few exceptions, for example a serious risk of death or serious injury, or a child's safety.
When to consult?
You can consult as soon as you feel the need, even if the events happened long ago. Strangulation, even without visible marks, requires an emergency medical assessment, as does a significant injury or a loss of consciousness.
If you must leave a threatening situation quickly and do not have the means, emergency financial assistance exists: a support organization or the police can apply for you. The CAVAC network also offers free, confidential help, even without a police complaint.
Consult at Clinique Omicron
The professionals at Clinique Omicron, at its service points in Quebec and by teleconsultation, can see you for an assessment, provide follow-up and refer you to psychological support. The IVAC application is yours to make: we do not decide on eligibility or on the help granted. Some documents are not covered by the public plan and may involve fees; see our rates.
The content of this page is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified healthcare professional. Consult a physician for any symptoms, questions or decisions you may have regarding your health.
Omicron Clinic
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