Domestic violence is not only a social and personal concern. It can also have a deep and lasting impact on mental health. Experiences of violence, intimidation, control and abuse can affect a person’s sense of safety, confidence, relationships and emotional wellbeing. Creating awareness around these effects is an important step towards building a more supportive and understanding society.
Dr. Suvayan Saha addressed the subject of domestic violence at ANCIPS 2024, the 74th Annual National Conference of the Indian Psychiatric Society. The talk focused on an important area where mental health care and social wellbeing come together.
Conversations around domestic violence often focus on the visible consequences of abuse. However, the emotional and psychological effects may remain hidden for a long time. Individuals experiencing domestic violence may face fear, emotional distress, anxiety, low self-esteem, sleep difficulties and other mental health challenges. The impact can also extend to children and other family members who witness or experience an unsafe environment.
A mental health professional can play an important role in recognising these concerns and providing a safe, respectful space for individuals to express what they are experiencing. Listening without judgement is often an important part of supportive care. Understanding the person’s circumstances and concerns can help guide appropriate support and further care when needed.
The discussion at ANCIPS 2024 also highlights the importance of connecting mental healthcare with broader community awareness. Addressing domestic violence requires more than awareness of the problem. It requires compassion, safety-focused support and collaboration among families, communities and professionals.
For mental health professionals, conferences such as ANCIPS provide valuable opportunities to discuss complex issues, exchange knowledge and bring greater attention to subjects that may otherwise remain difficult to talk about. Addressing domestic violence within psychiatric and mental health discussions can help strengthen awareness of the relationship between personal safety and psychological wellbeing.
Every conversation about domestic violence can contribute to greater understanding. Creating spaces where people feel heard, respected and supported is an important part of mental health care.
The message is simple but meaningful: mental wellbeing cannot be separated from a person’s experience of safety, dignity and respect. By encouraging informed conversations and compassionate support, mental health professionals can contribute to a more aware and supportive approach to those affected by domestic violence.
Through his participation at ANCIPS 2024, Dr. Suvayan Saha contributed to this important conversation, highlighting the role of mental health awareness in understanding and responding to the wider impact of domestic violence.
