How domestic violence affects women’s mental health

Domestic Violence and Mental Health. We need to do better.

Women who have experienced domestic violence or abuse are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing a range of mental health conditions including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and thoughts of suicide. One study found that only 15% of mental health practitioners routinely enquired about domestic violence, 60% reported a lack of knowledge about domestic violence, while 27% believed they did not have adequate referral resources.
Practitioners should be able to provide referrals to specialist services and need to be adequately trained to respond to those who disclose domestic violence.