Mental Health Addressing Domestic Violence and Mental Health

Addressing Domestic Violence and Mental Health

Domestic violence can have a huge impact on the mental and physical health of those who experience it. Domestic violence involves any type of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse within a relationship or family context. It can happen to anyone of any ethnicity, gender, culture, religion, age, or socioeconomic group. The most common kind of abuse occurs in relationships and is often related to one partner exerting power over the other.

Being subjected to, under threat of, or witnessing domestic violence can be distressing. It can lead to mental health challenges for many — but not all — survivors. Safety is the first priority if you or someone you know is at risk. Having a trusted therapist's support during planning how to leave can be of great benefit. Once you are safe, therapy can also help you to heal from the psychological effects of domestic violence.

Types of Domestic Violence

Different kinds of abuse can occur to people in intimate relationships, the elderly, or children. If you notice any of the following, you may be experiencing domestic violence:

  • Violence: Examples of violence include hitting, pushing, holding you down, or throwing things.
  • Sexual abuse: Such as being pressured to have sex or being hurt during sex.
  • Emotional abuse: The injury does not need to be physical to be abusive. Controlling or accusatory behavior or isolating you from your friends or family are examples of emotional abuse.
  • Verbal abuse: Includes verbal threats of violence or intimidation, for example.

Understanding the Effects of Domestic Violence

Survivors of domestic violence are at increased risk of mental health challenges. People react in different ways when faced with stressful and potentially dangerous situations, but some of the common mental health challenges encountered include:

Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Domestic Violence

Awareness is a powerful tool. Knowing the signs of domestic violence can help survivors — or those supporting them — recognize when help is needed. Signs might include:

  • Physical injuries
  • Sudden emotional changes
  • Withdrawal from loved ones
  • Patterns of control and manipulation

Encouraging open conversations and fostering a safe, judgment-free space can make it easier for survivors to seek help. Reaching out is a courageous act, and no one should feel alone in the process.

Building a Support System

Healing often begins with connection. Family and friends, support groups, and professional counselors offer emotional safety and encouragement. Many resources are designed for survivors, including hotlines, shelters, and advocacy organizations that provide immediate and long-term support.

Creating a reliable support network can make a huge difference — offering comfort, understanding, and reminding that brighter days are ahead.

Some key information if you are experiencing domestic violence:

Helplines

The Healing Power of Therapy for Domestic Violence

Domestic abuse counseling can be a transformative part of the healing journey. It provides a safe space to process emotions, build coping strategies, and rediscover self-worth. Therapy types include:

Additional types of therapy to consider, particularly if there is a child involved, include:

Begin Your Healing Journey With Zencare

Healing is a personal journey, but it is far from isolating. Seeking professional help to overcome challenges faced due to domestic violence is brave and will support you in reclaiming joy, peace, and safety. Find a therapist today and start your healing journey with therapy for domestic violence victims.

Sources:

  • (1) World Health Organization, Global and regional estimates of violence against women: prevalence and health effects of intimate partner violence and non-partner sexual violence (PDF)
  • (2) National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey 2010 (PDF)
  • (3) Children’s Exposure to Intimate Partner Violence and Other Family Violence (PDF)
  • (4) Domestic Violence
  • (5) Therapeutic Interventions in Intimate Partner Violence: An Overview
  • National Health Service UK, “Domestic violence and abuse”
  • Therapeutic Interventions in Intimate Partner Violence: An Overview

Find vetted therapists who specialize in domestic violence