How Domestic Violence Impacts Women's Mental Health

Throughout America, a lot of women find themselves in relationships with guys who all of a sudden become verbally and physically abusive. They already know these relationships are not great for their emotional and psychological health, yet they still remain in the connection. Why? It may be love, or low self-esteem, and maybe even denial. But largest, domestic violence impacts women's mental health. October was Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and women should know that it's never too late to find help from an abusive relationship.

The Cycle of Abuse

I read articles recently that included an interesting diagram outlining the various stages of abuse. According to the diagram, the very first stage within the cycle of abuse involves tension. During this stage, stress starts to develop and the woman may try to appease her abuser. The actual act of abuse, whether physical or psychological, occurs throughout the second stage. After this, a stage of reconciliation occurs in which the abuser apologizes or denies his responsibility for that incident. The fourth and final stage, also known as the “honeymoon” phase, is a period of calmness, during which the abuser influences the victim to forget the abuse ever happened. Unfortunately, this stage perpetuates the cycle of abuse to begin all over again.