Domestic violence is not only a personal tragedy but also a significant public health issue. In addition to the immediate trauma caused by abuse—such as physical injuries, emotional harm, and psychological distress—domestic violence contributes to long-term health problems that affect survivors, their families, and the healthcare system as a whole.
Survivors often experience chronic conditions that go untreated or are made worse by ongoing abuse. Depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder are common, leaving many women struggling to maintain mental wellness while also navigating unsafe environments. Alcohol and substance abuse frequently develop as coping mechanisms, further complicating recovery and increasing health risks. In addition, survivors face higher rates of reproductive health issues and sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS, often as a result of coercion, sexual violence, or a lack of control over their own healthcare decisions.
The toll extends beyond mental and reproductive health. Survivors of abuse often struggle to manage other chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, or asthma. The stress of living in a violent household weakens the immune system and exacerbates these conditions, while barriers to accessing healthcare—such as financial control by the abuser, fear of disclosure, or lack of safe transportation—make it harder for women to receive consistent treatment. As a result, health problems spiral, creating long-term physical and emotional burdens.
This cycle transforms domestic violence into a widespread public health concern. When survivors cannot access care or manage chronic conditions, they are left vulnerable to ongoing harm. Communities and healthcare systems bear the weight of repeated emergency visits, hospitalizations, and crisis interventions. Without effective treatment and support, the cycle of violence and poor health continues, increasing the likelihood of repeated abuse and generational trauma.
Addressing domestic violence as a public health issue requires more than emergency intervention—it demands prevention, accessible healthcare, and supportive services that empower women to take control of their health and safety. Women’s advocacy organizations play a vital role in bridging this gap: connecting survivors with medical care, advocating for trauma-informed health policies, and raising awareness of the lasting health impacts of abuse. By treating domestic violence as a public health crisis, we not only save lives but also strengthen the overall wellbeing of families and communities.