A new study published in the journal Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology has found that victims of domestic violence are two times more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety disorders.
The researchers from the University of Queensland said domestic violence, especially intimate partner violence, was found to be more problematic and such abuse either by men or women could increase the risk of depression and anxiety.
The authors found that most victims of intimate partner violence at the age of 21 had signs of mental health issues at the age of 30.
Women were more likely to develop depression, while men experienced a varying degree of anxiety disorders.
The researchers described domestic violence as physical abuse such as pushing, shoving and smacking.
Emeritus Professor and Researcher Jake Najman from the University of Queensland said they also found equal levels of abuse by men and women.
He said, “The number of men and women who experience intimate partner violence is very similar, leading us to believe couples are more likely to abuse each other.”
“People generally don’t end up in the hospital or a shelter, but there is a serious mental burden from this type of abuse,” added Prof. Najman.
The study also showed that real couples and couples from low socioeconomic backgrounds were more likely to indulge in intimate partner violence or abusive relationships.
In such abusive relationships, couples indulge in words or comments that make a person feel worthless, and then there is harassment, constant nagging, and distress. A person exposed to these things could face long-term consequences, affecting their mental health later in their lives.
Prof Najman explained, “It also raises the question, to what extent is this type of violent behavior not just a characteristic of the relationship the couple has with each other, but with other people around them and possibly their children.”
“There is a range of treatment and counseling programs available for couples and families to try and improve the way they relate to one another,” he added.
