The Impact of Domestic Violence on Mental Health
Domestic violence is a serious issue that can have a profound impact on the mental health of victims. It is increasing every year and has become a national societal problem. The National Library of Medicine reported, "Family and domestic health violence are estimated to affect 10 million people in the United States every year." (2022) These rising numbers are putting more and more people at risk of experiencing such trauma.
People who have experienced domestic violence are at an increased risk for developing depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder, along with substance abuse and physical ailments. It is important to know there are resources available and help out there.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, it's encouraged to seek help from a professional
domestic violence attorney
immediately. They can help you get the resources you need and the safety you deserve. Remember, you are not alone.
Victims of domestic violence often suffer from depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Victims of domestic violence suffer from psychological afflictions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Domestic violence can leave lasting impacts on its victims for years after the abuse has stopped. It can cause feelings of helplessness, guilt, and fear. It often results in victims feeling isolated from their friends and family, which can lead to further depression and anxiety.
In a
Public Health article, it stated "the percentage of women who consider their mental health to be poor is almost
three times higher among women with a history of domestic violence than those in healthy relationships" (2019)
Being abused leads to PTSD because of the intense fear and distress that victims experience. Victims of
domestic violence often feel like they are constantly on alert, which can result in difficulty sleeping, flashbacks, hypervigilance, and nightmares.
Physical health problems may also result from abuse. Victims of domestic violence are more likely to suffer from chronic pain, headaches, fatigue, stomach ulcers, dizziness, high blood pressure, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome, and other physical ailments. Prolonged exposure to domestic violence can lead to chronic stress and trauma, which can have a direct effect on physical health and well-being.
Domestic violence can lead to substance abuse and self-harm
Domestic violence can be a damaging experience for victims, and its effects can extend beyond physical, emotional, and mental harm. In many cases, domestic violence has been shown to lead to substance abuse as victims attempt to cope with the trauma of the events they've endured. Substance use is a way to escape the pain and distress of the experience, allowing victims to disassociate.
In the
Public Health article, it is reported: "domestic abuse victims are
70 percent more likely to drink excessive amounts of alcohol than those in healthy relationships." Sometimes alcohol and other drugs are utilized as coercion from the perpetrator, increasing the likelihood of continued use.
Domestic violence victims may also be prone to self-harm, including cutting and other forms of physical injury. Self-harm can be used as an attempt to manage intense emotions or cope. It can also be used in an attempt to gain control over one's life.
The side effects of domestic violence disrupt one's life. It can create difficulties in self-identity, relationships, and employment, and can leave lasting psychological and physical effects. A victim's mental health is greatly impacted by this experience and can lead to a variety of mental health conditions that make it hard to do day-to-day activities.
It is important to remember that domestic violence victims are not alone and there is help available. There are many organizations dedicated to providing support for victims of domestic violence, such as shelters, counseling services, legal aid, and more. Seeking help from a professional can make all the difference and provide the necessary tools to heal and move forward in life, as well as access supportive services.
If you or someone you know has experienced domestic violence, do not be afraid or ashamed to seek help. In Cedar Park, Texas,
Harris & McKeown Law Firm is here to be your trusted domestic violence attorney. We are committed to protecting our clients while prosecuting their abusers. We put your safety first and support you to return to a more peaceful state of mind. We provide all of the domestic violence legal actions under the Domestic Violence Prevention Act, permanent restraining orders, temporary restraining orders, and more. Give us a call today at
512-668-7733 and book a
complimentary consultation. You deserve to be free from abuse!
