Domestic Violence: Consequences Faced by its Sufferers
In a coordinated effort to address the pervasive issue of intimate partner violence (IPV), communities, policymakers, and support services must work together to combat this devastating problem.
Research has shown that IPV can have severe mental health consequences, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and increased suicidal ideation and attempts [1][3][4]. For gay and bisexual men, the risks are even higher due to additional stressors related to social exclusion, stigma, and identity invalidation common in LGBTQ+ communities [2][4].
Specifically, IPV in gay and bisexual men has been linked to increased risks of depression and anxiety, higher rates of PTSD, elevated suicidal ideation and suicide attempts, and chronic stress from prolonged abuse [1][3][4]. These mental health issues can be further aggravated by barriers to seeking help, such as discrimination within services and fear of further stigmatization [4].
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines IPV as a pattern of behavior used by one partner to maintain power and control over another in an intimate relationship [5]. This pattern can manifest in various forms, including physical abuse, financial abuse, social isolation, coercion or threats or intimidation, sexual abuse, minimizing/denying, and emotional/verbal/psychological abuse [6].
The mental health impact of IPV is not limited to gay and bisexual men. Women experiencing IPV face significant health risks, including high alcohol consumption, smoking, unsafe sexual activities, and increased suicide risk [7].
Addressing the urgent need to protect and empower victims of IPV requires comprehensive support services and urgent advocacy [8]. Stef Gafa, a counsellor with our website who specializes in trauma, attachment, domestic violence, and the LGBT community, emphasizes the importance of inclusive services tailored to the unique needs of various populations.
Global organizations like UNICEF have drawn attention to the far-reaching dangers of IPV [9]. In a study by the Commission on Domestic Violence, it was found that 10% of women who had been exposed to violence from their partner took tranquilizers, 33% consumed a form of analgesia, and 11% were on antidepressants; of these participants, 11% had suicidal thoughts [10].
In conclusion, IPV is a complex issue with severe and far-reaching consequences for mental health. Urgent action is needed to provide targeted support, inclusive services, and systemic changes to improve outcomes for victims of IPV, particularly for marginalized populations such as gay and bisexual men.
- The pervasive issue of intimate partner violence (IPV) can also be linked to various neurological disorders, given its mental health consequences.
- Addressing IPV demands a multidisciplinary approach, encompassing science, medical-conditions, health-and-wellness, mental-health, and therapies-and-treatments.
- Increased mental health awareness and services can aid in combating IPV, particularly in underserved communities like women and the LGBTQ+ population.
- General news outlets and crime-and-justice departments should highlight the prevalence and devastating effects of IPV to instigate public interest and support for victims.
- CBD, known for its potential to alleviate anxiety and depression, has shown promise in addressing mental health issues stemming from IPV.
- In the realm of women's health, IPV can contribute to unhealthy behaviors like substance abuse, risky sexual activities, and increased suicide risk.
