September is National Suicide Prevention Month; a time to raise awareness, encourage conversations around mental health, and remind those who may be struggling that support is available. We also want to acknowledge the connection between domestic violence and the lasting impact it can have on a survivor’s mental health.
Leaving an abusive relationship does not mean the effects of violence immediately disappear. Survivors may continue to experience the emotional and psychological impacts of abuse long after the violence has ended. The trauma of domestic violence can affect a person’s sense of safety, their relationships, and can have disastrous effects on their overall well-being.
Research shows that intimate partner violence (IPV) has a significant impact on the mental health of survivors. Many survivors experience anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and ongoing fear. Survivors of IPV face a greater risk of suicidal thoughts and attempts than women without a history of IPV. Women who have experienced IPV are also more likely to experience clinical depression, which can contribute to thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts. The connection between domestic violence and suicide is important to recognize. These impacts are not limited to adults; younger individuals can also be affected by experiences of dating violence and abuse.
1 in 3 Youth and transitional-aged youth (TAY) are at risk of experiencing Dating Violence at some point in their life. Others may experience abuse within their home in the form of Domestic Violence. During an impressionable time in their life, young people are already navigating social, emotional, and personal challenges. These experiences may lead to mental health struggles, including, but not limited to, fear, anxiety, and nightmares. The Cycle of Violence is pervasive and hard to break free from, leading to feelings of isolation and hopelessness. Experiencing relationship violence at a young age may lead to the violence itself, or the effects of the violence, continuing into adulthood. Having a trusted adult or supportive community can make a positive impact. Creating spaces where young people feel comfortable and safe asking for help is essential. Sending the message to young individuals that they are not alone and that support is available is an important part of our efforts to prevent future violence.
At La Casa de las Madres, we want survivors to know that support is available and that reaching out for help is a sign of strength. We encourage everyone in our community to reach out to their loved ones and let them know you care. Survivors deserve to feel seen, supported, and understood, not judged for the ways trauma may continue to affect them.
Suicide Prevention Month: Call to Action!
Check in with friends, family members, and loved ones. Ask how they are doing and create a space for honest conversations.
Remind the people in your life that they are not alone. Let them know that you care, and that there are free and confidential support services available.
Listen without judgement. Thank the person for sharing their story with you, and remember that consistent support is the most effective intervention.
Ask the survivor what they want to do. It is natural to want to jump into action and help our loved ones make decisions for their safety. But remember, a survivor isn't going to take steps towards a healing journey unless THEY are good and ready. Slow down, and be okay if your loved one just needs to be heard and isn't ready to take action.
Resources
La Casa de las Madres 24/7 Crisis Hotline: 877-503-1850
La Casa de las Madres Text Support Line: 415-200-3575
La Casa de las Madres Teen Line: 877-923-0700
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
This Suicide Prevention Month, we continue to stand with survivors and victims past, present, and future, and affirm that everyone deserves safety, support, and hope. No one should have to navigate a difficult journey alone.