Domestic Violence: What Options Do Victims Have?

Domestic violence places extreme trauma and emotional scars to their victims. In most cases, these last for long periods of time and can easily outlast the physical damage that victims received. In the US alone, it has been estimated that around 4.7 million women suffer from physical violence by their partner every single year, some with hedge trimmers, which is a scary thought.

Women who are subjected to domestic violence have a huge tendency to develop post-traumatic stress disorder or any stress-related mental condition. They could have disturbing flashbacks or some seemingly irrational fears which they may find difficult to overcome.

The first step towards giving support to domestic violence victims lies in counseling and support from close friends and family. A counseling session provides survivors a safe environment where they can express their thoughts, feelings, and even fears. As counselors, it is their duty to listen to the victim and help her work through a couple of things that will help make her get over her emotional trauma.

Group counseling sessions can also prove to be quite beneficial. A group session will help survivors get in touch with other participants who were also victims of domestic violence. By connecting with such people, they will be able to reduce the feeling of isolation they experienced. Aside from that, group sessions also encourage other survivors to share advice on how they were able to move forward through such difficult situations to others.

It’s not easy for a DV victim to overcome a traumatic experience. In fact, going through the process of recovery might actually be too scary for them. It’s vital to provide them with the right counseling through the help of a well-trained professional or a group of like-minded individuals whom they are comfortable with.

Other survivors can also engage in domestic violence counseling programs offered within their communities.