Domestic violence can be defined as repeated physical, mental, or financial abuse used to forcefully increase the power and control the abuser has in the relationship. According to data published in the National Center of Biotechnology Information(NCBI) updated in July 2022, women suffer more domestic violence incidents than men. Domestic Violence Awareness Month has been celebrated every year in October since 1989. It provides a voice for the victims and inspires those suffering from this social evil to claw their way back in.
Domestic violence affects those involved, their children, and those around them. Hence, it is a society-wide problem that requires our attention. It can also have negative mental health implications and is connected with trauma, abuse, and gaslighting.
Why Is Domestic Violence Awareness Important?
For the victims, reaching out takes courage, time, and support. But seeing others share their experiences of overcoming can make this jump much more effortless. Firstly, this gives the perception of a safe space, making people feel comfortable and much more likely to speak out. Secondly, the victims might feel understood when hearing others sharing similar experiences.
Lastly, victims can help each other continue through tough times through support groups and communities. Support groups can provide emotional support and resources to cope when most needed. They might also help the victims build supportive relationships.
Read more: The importance of reaching out to others
How Does Domestic Violence Impact Mental Health?
Domestic violence is associated with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance abuse in the general population. Exposure to domestic violence can also traumatize children, adversely impacting their education, social skills, and mental health. Some effective treatments for it include
-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT): This therapy focuses on influencing the patient’s cognitions(thoughts, visions, and other mental processes) and behaviors to achieve positive outcomes.
-Targeted trauma-focused treatments: Targeted therapy helps people regulate, manage or cope with intense emotions as they are happening.
-CBT combined with empowerment methods(especially in cases with PTSD): Victims are disempowered and often in a state where they don’t believe themselves capable of fighting back. Making them regain mental strength and understand that they are capable of happiness is the purpose of this therapy.
Read more: Mental health awareness websites for reliable support and care
What To Expect From The Event?
According to World Health Organization’s 2018 analysis, almost 30% of women have been subjected to physical and sexual violence by an intimate partner or non-partner. Accordingly, to address the widespread nature of this issue, the theme for domestic violence awareness month 2022 is “everyone knows someone.” Everyone knows someone who’s gone through an experience of domestic violence. Thus, everyone can spread awareness and help people recover.
Conclusion
Domestic violence is a traumatic and scarring social evil. It can lead to severe mental health issues in the victim or those exposed if gone unchecked. Domestic violence awareness month is an annual event to empower victims and spread awareness about the same in society. Many non-profits, social service organizations, and individuals unite to make this mission a success.
One of the first steps individuals suffering from domestic violence can take is detaching from their abusive partner. They can take steps to reclaim their emotional authority and establish boundaries to take care of themselves. Here is a blog post to help you understand how to detach from someone emotionally.
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An intriguing discussion is worth comment. There’s no doubt that that you need to write more about this issue, it might not be a taboo subject but generally people do not discuss such issues. To the next! Best wishes!!
Thank you Ursula!