The consequences
The violence the woman suffers over months and years leaves marks that go far beyond merely physical injuries. The abuse causes various symptoms that the woman does not necessarily associate with what her spouse is subjecting her to.
Some examples of the main effects of domestic violence are:
Physical effects
- Sleep disorders
- Digestive disorders, loss of appetite
- Headaches
- Chronic fatigue, low energy
- Change in sexual habits
- Bodily injuries caused by physical abuse
- Tremors
- Difficulty concentrating
Psychological effects
- Anxiety
- Nervousness
- Depressed mood
- Anger
- Constant fear
- Feelings of shame/guilt
- Feeling of powerlessness
- Feeling of distress
- Doubtful of own abilities
- Distrust
- Loss of self-esteem
- Suicidal ideation
Financial effects
- Material losses
- Moving out
- Lost wages, financial losses
Social effects
- Isolation
- Change or loss of job
- Absenteeism at work or school
- Lack of understanding in social circle (judgement or assumptions)
- Lack of trust in strangers