Intimate partner violence (IPV) continues to be a major public health issue confronting US women. Women in such relationships experience short and long-term effects of this violence in a number of ways including in terms of their mental health. The current study examined the mental health characteristics of women in violent intimate relationships in terms of depression, suicidality, use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs, and the use of prescription medications for psychological problems over a period of 12 months.
Women at a local domestic violence shelter who had experienced heterosexual intimate partner violence in their current relationship were recruited for the study. Life history interviews and surveys were administered to eligible shelter clients in the privacy of an office. Study participants were financially compensated for their participation. They were followed for a period of one year during which interviews and surveys were conducted every three months.
Study findings indicate the prevalence of depression, suicidality, and use of prescription medications for psychological problems. In addition, the follow-up interviews indicate that positive changes in mental health characteristics were reported between 3-6 months after entering the domestic violence shelter. A small but significant study participants reported depression and thoughts of suicide in the 12-month follow-up interview. Although study participants were no longer receiving inpatient counseling for emotional problems at the end of 12 months, they reported continuing to receive outpatient counseling for such problems. Implications for long-term mental health services that integrate the influence of violence will be discussed.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner)in this session will be able to: 1. Recognize some of the the immediate mental health consequences of intimate partner violence (IPV) 2. Describe the long-term mental health consequences of IPV 3. Articulate relevant public health strategies that address depression and suicidality experienced by women in violent intimate relationships
Keywords: Violence, Mental Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.