Understanding the association between intimate partner violence and mental ill health
Problem
Intimate partner violence (IPV), seen as a violation of human rights, remains a prevalent global public health issue affecting as many as one in three women. Being a survivor of IPV is associated with a wide range of poor health outcomes. However, the impacts of IPV on mental health in the UK have not been well understood and as such survivors may not be getting the support they need.
Outcome
Using Dexter, this new study is the first of its kind in the UK to clearly show that the relationship runs both ways, and the key findings were:
- those experiencing domestic abuse are nearly three times as likely to develop mental illness;
- women who are experiencing domestic abuse are also nearly three times more likely to have a history of mental illness;
- this is the first study to show the link between domestic abuse and serious mental illness (bipolar and schizophrenia);
- there is a huge discrepancy found between the abuse reported in GP practices and the national data, showing significant under reporting.
We have since raised light on this important issue which has been reflected in national and international discourse and discussed at length in the media and in communities affected.
