Victims of domestic violence react to being attacked or abused in different ways. Individuals may feel angry, afraid, confused or even emotionally numb. Every victim reacts differently and all these feelings are normal.
A recent study published in the journal Depression and Anxiety discussed that experiencing domestic violence can lead not only to physical injuries but to long lasting mental health problems. A team of researchers at King’s College London in England, the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal (IUSMM), and the University of Montreal found that victims of domestic violence can experience depression, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder.
The study focused on the effect of domestic violence and the risk of developing depression. Conducted over a ten-year period, it included 1,052 mothers who had no history of depression. During the course of the study, researchers performed interviews with the subjects to determine if they had any history of child abuse, economic poverty or if they had endured spousal abuse and if they suffered from a mental health disorder.
Domestic Violence Study Results
Over one-third of the women who took part in the study were found to have experienced some type of violence from their spouse. It was also found that these women shared common characteristics such as drug abuse, economic poverty, a history of childhood abuse, and early pregnancies. The subjects were twice as likely to be diagnosed with depression, and the risk doubled if they were victims of child abuse. Women who had experienced domestic violence at the hands of their spouse were three times more likely to suffer from additional mental health disorders, including psychotic and schizophrenia symptoms.
It is important to understand the impact of domestic violence on an individual’s mental health. The consequences of domestic violence include both physical and psychological damages. Healthcare professionals should be aware that individuals suffering from depression and other psychological symptoms could be a victim of domestic violence. It is imperative that these individuals receive the proper treatment for their symptoms, as well as having the appropriate protection in place to prevent further occurrences of violence.
Bel Air Divorce Lawyers of Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC, Handle Maryland Domestic Violence Matters
If you have been a victim of domestic violence and are in need of immediate help, you should first call the police. Another way to ensure your safety is to obtain a protective order. Bel Air divorce lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC, successfully obtain enforceable protective orders for victims of domestic violence. Call us today to schedule your free confidential consultation at 443-589-0150 or contact us online.
The offices of Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC are conveniently located in Hunt Valley, Maryland to serve clients in the Baltimore region including all of Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County and Howard County, including the areas of Towson, Bel Air, Columbia, Westminster and Essex.
