Mental Health, domestic violence — **How Domestic Violence Affects Mental Well-being**

Domestic violence (DV) is a pervasive issue in Australia, affecting people across all backgrounds, ages, and communities. Domestic violence doesn’t just leave physical scars—it leaves deep emotional wounds.
We explore how domestic violence can impact the mental well-being of victims and we offer practical ideas for help in breaking the cycle.

The Mental Health Toll of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence (DV) is the terms used to describe family or intimate partner violence. It can involve physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and/or psychological abuse. In Australia, one in four women and one in eight men have experienced violence by an intimate partner or family member [1]. Living in an environment of fear, control, and unpredictability has a damaging impact on mental health. Even after the abuse ends, the emotional impact can continue to affect relationships, sense of safety, and self-worth.

Domestic violence often involves coercive control — this is a pattern of manipulation that isolates the survivor, wears down their confidence, and makes it harder to seek help or even recognise what’s happening. Over time, this can lead to emotional numbness, self-blame, and a profound sense of helplessness.

Depression, Anxiety, and Trauma

Victims of domestic violence are at significantly higher risk of developing the following mental health disorders:

· Depression and Anxiety: Victims often experience persistent sadness, hopelessness, and overwhelming worry, with symptoms often persisting long after the violence has stopped [3].

· Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Many victims have PTSD symptoms, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and experience chronic hyper-vigilance. This is often seen in individuals who have experienced sexual violence or severe physical abuse [2][1].

· Substance Abuse: Some victims use alcohol or drugs to self-soothe and numb to cope with their trauma, which can have a further negative impact on health and social problems [2][3].

· Suicidal Thoughts and Self-Harm: The risk of suicide attempts is higher among those who have experienced both physical and sexual abuse by a partner [2][3]. Some victims develop suicidal thoughts, not because they want to die, but because they’re desperate for the pain and fear to end.

Long-Term and Cumulative Effects

The psychological impacts of domestic violence are not limited to the period of abuse. Many victims report long-term effects, including low self-esteem, ongoing anxiety, social isolation, and difficulty trusting others [3]. Their trauma can be compounded if the victim has experienced multiple forms of violence or adversity, such as childhood abuse or sexual assault outside of intimate relationships [2]. Many survivors also struggle with sleep disturbances, substance use, disordered eating, and chronic stress, which can take a toll on their physical health as well.

Impact on Children

Children exposed to domestic violence are also at risk. They may develop depression, anxiety, PTSD, and emotional or behavioural problems in response to the environmental stress. Exposure to violence can disrupt a child’s sense of safety, impact their learning and social development, and increase the likelihood of them experiencing or perpetrating violence in adulthood [2][3][4].

Breaking the Cycle

Leaving an abusive relationship is not a simple or immediate fix. The decision to leave is complex — and recovery is often a long process that requires ongoing safety, support, and compassion. Breaking the cycle requires a coordinated effort by individuals, communities, service providers, and governments.

1. Accessing Support Services

Victims of domestic violence should be encouraged to seek help. You are not alone:

· 1800 RESPECT: A national 24/7 counselling and support service for people affected by domestic and family violence.

· State and Territory Helplines: DVConnect Womensline 1800 811 811, Sexual Assault Helpline (DVConnect) 1800 010 120, Rainbow Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence Helpline 1800 497 212 and other crisis accommodation and legal support services [5].

· Specialised Counselling: Access to trauma-informed care can help victims process their experiences and develop coping strategies.

2. Trauma-Informed Healthcare

Healthcare professionals play a vital role in recognising the signs of domestic violence and providing appropriate referrals. Trauma-informed care prioritises safety, trust, and empowerment to help victims process their experiences, develop coping strategies, and feel understood and supported [2]. Lakeside Rooms practitioners are highly experienced in this regard. Contact Lakeside Rooms for assistance.

3. Building Social Connections

Isolation is both a risk factor and a consequence of domestic violence. Rebuilding social networks-through friends, family, support groups, or community organisations can help victims regain confidence and reduce feelings of loneliness [3].

4. Education and Prevention

Primary prevention strategies are essential to break the cycle of violence. This includes:

· Community Education: Raising awareness about healthy relationships and the unacceptability of violence.

· School Programs: Teaching children and young people about respect, consent, and emotional regulation.

· Workplace Initiatives: Encouraging employers to support staff affected by domestic violence and promote a culture of respect [6].

5. Legal and Financial Empowerment

Victims often remain in abusive relationships due to financial dependence or fear of legal repercussions. Access to legal advice, financial counselling, and safe housing can empower victims to leave abusive situations and rebuild their lives [5].

6. Addressing Perpetrator Behaviour

Breaking the cycle also requires intervention with perpetrators. Programs that address anger management, accountability, and healthy relationship skills are crucial to prevent further harm [6].

Hope and Healing

While the mental health consequences of domestic violence are serious, recovery is possible. Studies show that when victims are no longer exposed to violence and receive appropriate support, their health and well-being can improve significantly [3]. Healing is a journey that takes time, but with the right resources, safety, and support, victims can reclaim their lives.

Final Thoughts

Domestic violence isn’t just something that happens behind closed doors – it’s a serious issue that affects the health and well-being of entire communities. The impact on mental health can be huge and long-lasting. Tackling this problem takes empathy, awareness, and a real commitment to both prevention and healing.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) for confidential support and information.