If you have experienced Domestic Violence in the past from one or more previous partners or significant others, the effects can be longstanding and disabling.  Depending on the severity and longevity of the violence and your ability to process the memories, you can develop long lasting mental health issues.

 

You may suffer with depression, anxiety and questioning of your own self-worth.  You may experience symptoms such as sweating, nausea, uncontrollable trembling or develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and suffer with nightmares or flashbacks (re-experiencing of the abuse).  It may be that you have developed your own way to cope with the distress which can include things that are detrimental to your health.  Alcohol or drug misuse is a common way that people avoid their emotional pain, but that in turn can cause addictions and further distress and dysfunction. 

 

Some people experience suicidal thoughts or attempt suicide due to the severity of symptoms.  If you or someone you know is feeling depressed or suicidal, contact your GP, Emergency Department at the hospital or reach out for help at the following services:

 

Acute Care Team – Phone:  4433 3000

Lifeline – 131 114

Sane Australia – 1800 187263

Black Dog Institute – 02 9382 4523

 

Children witnessing Domestic Violence can be severely affected including having delayed or inappropriate emotional development, loss of self-confidence, social withdrawal, depression, school refusal, seeking inappropriate affection or attention. 

 

Brenda is experienced in lessening after effects of domestic violence including working with adult survivors, traumatised children and perpetrators. 

 

Please see your GP in the first instance for a review of your mental health and any potential related diagnosis to assist treatment.