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BREAKING THE CHAINS

The devastating impacts of domestic violence on mental wellness
DR NUR-A-SAFRINA RAHMAN
Domestic violence is a worldwide issue. Research shows women are more likely to be abused at home. Men are also victims of domestic violence, but they sometimes find it difficult to accept that they are being mistreated or to seek help. Kids are long-term victims of domestic violence.
Reasons for domestic violence:
Domestic violence has several causes. One key issue is masculinity. Research reveals that traditional and toxic masculinity, which emphasises dominance, control, and aggression, may contribute to domestic violence. In such cases, men may use violence to dominate their intimate relationships. Some other key factors that contribute to the occurrence of domestic violence include:
1. Power imbalances like unequal allocation of family tasks, decision-making power, and financial resources.
2. Alcohol and drug use impair judgement and increase aggression, making domestic violence more likely.
3. Childhood trauma increases the risk of adult abuse.
4. Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.
5. Societal attitudes like “the victim is at fault” can contribute to its recurrence.
Impact of domestic violence on partners:
Domestic violence can have lifelong mental health effects. Abuse can cause mental health disorders like:
1. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Abused person may have symptoms including flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.
2. Depression: Domestic violence can leave victims feeling hopeless and helpless.
3. Anxiety: Survivors may have panic episodes, excessive worry, and safety concerns.
4. Substance abuse: Trauma survivors may take drugs to cope.
5. Self-harm: Abuse survivors may self-harm to cope with emotional agony.
Indirect impact of domestic violence on children:
Domestic violence has been proven in studies to have a variety of detrimental impacts on children, including different behavioural issues.
• Children who see domestic violence can be affected by trauma in their mental, emotional, and social growth.
• They may battle with guilt, shame, uncertainty, fear, insecurity, trust, and unhealthy relationships in the future.
• Long-term consequences could include an increased likelihood of developing mental health disorders and engaging in violent behaviour later in life.
Preventing domestic violence:
1. Communication: Open, positive, and honest communication is one of the best strategies for a marriage to prevent conflict. Learn healthy and non-violent ways to resolve conflicts.
2. Mutual respect: Respecting each other and avoiding name-calling, criticism, and humiliation might reduce violence.
3. Seek help: If one spouse struggles to manage their anger or has a history of violence, talking to friends, relatives, a therapist, or a counsellor can lessen the risk of violence.
4. Education and awareness: Raising people’s awareness and teaching them about healthy relationships and ways to solve problems without violence can help stop violence.
5. Addressing underlying causes: Domestic violence often stems from larger societal issues, such as poverty, gender inequality, and substance abuse. Addressing these underlying causes can help prevent domestic violence.
6. Support for victims: Providing support to victims, including safe housing, counselling, and legal aid, can help them escape abusive situations and rebuild their lives.
7. Providing training and resources to professionals: Providing training and resources to professionals such as law enforcement officers, medical personnel, and social workers can help them respond appropriately and effectively to domestic violence cases.
Parents can also teach their children about respecting others’ personal boundaries and asking permission in all interactions and create an environment where their children can express their feelings and feel heard and acknowledged. If a child reports abuse, parents should listen and help them find help. Thus, parents can prevent domestic violence and create a safer, more peaceful future.
The writer is a public health specialist.
E-mail: safrinarahman16@gmail.com