Domestic Violence in Latin America: 3 Ways it Affects Your Mental Health

Although being exposed to violence anywhere can be a life-changing experience, it may be even more severe if you face domestic violence at home. When you don’t feel safe at your house, this could have a negative effect on your mental health. Keep reading for 3 ways that domestic violence may affect your mental health and what you can do about it.

May Lead to Mental Conditions

If you are facing domestic violence, or have in the past, you may be at a greater risk of developing a mental health condition. There are a few different ailments that you may experience, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, depending on the circumstances and other factors.

Can Harm Self-Esteem

Another way that your mental health can be affected by violence at home is in terms of your self-esteem. If you are not being treated kindly and fairly by your partner, this may cause you to feel like you are not worthy of someone treating you with love and respect. Moreover, you might think there is something wrong with you.

Might Cause Difficulties in All Relationships

When you have experienced an abusive relationship or are currently in one, this may affect any and all relationships in the future. For example, even if you are able to get away from a mate that is abusing you, it can be difficult to trust or connect with another potential mate in the future. Moreover, you could have a hard time letting your guard down around people in general.

To find out more about domestic violence, as well as resources to help you, check out this page for information.

What You Can Do

There are ways to address domestic violence, so you may be able to lessen the effects on your mental health. One way is by working with a therapist. When you are able to visit a counselor, they should have the ability to diagnose any mental health condition that you have, so you can get treatment as soon as possible.

Moreover, they may have additional resources to help you get out of an abusive relationship, if this is what you want to do. They should be able to provide referrals for special shelters to go to or inform you of organizations that will be able to lend a hand.

On the other hand, if you are able to seek help from a loved one or friend, they might be able to provide you with assistance when you need it too. Even if you feel like no one cares about your plight, you should consider trusting someone; they may be able to offer resources or a kind ear.

In Latin America, domestic violence rates are higher than in other areas of the world, and it can be difficult to obtain justice, even if you inform the police about the abuse you have been suffering from. However, laws are being enacted in some areas of this region, in order to better protect victims.

Overall, it is necessary to remember that there is help out there, even if you feel like your situation is hopeless. You should reach out to people that love and care about you, as well as find a therapist to work with, for best results.

Overview

Considering domestic violence is prevalent throughout Latin America, you, or someone you know may be affected by it. In many cases, it has an impact on your mental health, but this is something that should be addressed. If you can work with a therapist, they may be able to lessen the effects of the mental impact domestic violence has.

In short, reach out for help when you need it from a person you trust. When you can, choose to work with a psychologist as well. This might be the best course of action for your mental health.

Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.

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