How Does Domestic Violence Affect Your Physical and Mental Health

In some cases, the signs of domestic abuse are obvious. In other situations, however, your family members or friends may be experiencing traumatic situations at home unbeknownst to the outside world. Domestic violence harms the body as well as the mind. Being able to notice the signs and knowing how to intervene are crucial in getting help for your loved ones.

Warning Signs of Domestic Violence

You may notice that your loved ones regularly have bruises on their body. Also, victims may be reluctant to say how they got the bruises or might brush a seemingly major injury off as minor. The effects of abuse and domestic violence can manifest in emotional ways as well, such as talk of depression or suicide. Your loved one may also withdraw from activities that they used to enjoy or begin abusing drugs or alcohol. An individual who controls their partner, such as by monitoring whereabouts or taking away cell phones, is another warning sign.

How to Help

If you are a witness to the abuse, call 911 right away. Otherwise, you can provide your loved one with phone numbers to support services, both locally and nationally. Let your loved one know that you are there and that you are willing to accompany them to a counselor’s office or other help center. Offer a supportive, non-judgmental ear. It’s important to avoid making victims feel as though you’re teaming up against them with other relatives and friends. However, if a small group of people close to the victim suspects abuse, you could have a conversation together.

Effects of Domestic Violence on Physical and Mental Health

In addition to withdrawing from beloved activities, having bruises and possibly turning to drugs and alcohol, your relative or friend may be experiencing other consequences to their health. Someone who is being abused might stop taking care of themselves or may struggle with severe anxiety. You might notice that your loved one isn’t showering or changing their clothes regularly, possibly as a result of depression. Victims of abuse can suffer from a wide range of effects, including low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress disorder, and digestive issues.

When to Get a Lawyer Involved

Let your loved one know that hiring a lawyer to fight the case is advisable. You can help your relative or friend to find the right option. For example, if there are children who are being abused in the home, speak with your loved one about getting a child abuse lawyer. It’s also important to tell victims that resources are available if they feel as though they will not be able to afford a lawyer. You can also help your relative or friend to gather important documentation before meeting with the lawyer.

Knowing when and how to intervene in cases of domestic abuse is difficult. The first step is to know the signs. It might feel awkward or uncomfortable to intervene, but think about what your loved one is going through. By stepping in, you could truly be saving a life.