Domestic Violence (DV) which encompasses intimate partner violence, refers to physical, sexual, or psychological harm done to an individual by a current or former partner or spouse. DV is associated with a range of physical and mental health effects. Being a victim of DV is linked to increased risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and suicide. Exposure to traumatic events can lead to stress, fear, and isolation, which may lead to depression and suicidal thoughts and behavior. Survivors of DV may internalize verbal abuse from their partner. They may blame themselves for their situation or feel anger, survivors may experience difficulties in new relationships.
DV survivors are more likely to experience health problems and perceive their overall health as poor compared to those who have not experienced.
DV, about 75% of female survivors experience some form of injury related to the DV. In addition to injury, common physical symptoms include, headaches, insomnia, chronic pain, gastrointestinal symptoms, chest, back and pelvic pain. Traumatic brain injury and nonfatal strangulation are forms of intimate partner violence that often go unrecognized. Intimate partner violence can also result in unplanned pregnancies and pregnancy complications for mother and child. Additionally, more than half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by current or former male intimate partner according to the U.S. crime reports. (www. psychiatry.org) For more information or help please call Project Celebration, Inc. @ 318-256-6242 or 318349-8938 ask for Luci.
Hotline: 1-888-4111333 National Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788 Teenagers from 13-26 can call Hotline: 1-866-331-9474 or text LOVEIS to 22522 Everything we do is free and confidential. You are not alone, reach out.