Mental health is deeply connected with the environment in which a person lives, and experiences of violence can have a lasting impact on emotional and psychological wellbeing. Domestic violence is an important social and mental health concern that requires greater awareness, early support and sensitive professional intervention.
Dr. Suvayan Saha had the opportunity to deliver a talk on the impact of domestic violence at the WPA Regional Congress, held in Kolkata in April 2023. The conference brought together mental health professionals and psychiatrists from different regions to discuss important issues in psychiatry, with a focus on building awareness and bridging gaps in mental healthcare.
The presentation focused on understanding how domestic violence can affect an individual’s mental health. Violence within the home can take different forms, including physical, emotional, psychological and other forms of abuse. Beyond immediate physical harm, repeated exposure to an unsafe or threatening environment may affect a person’s sense of security, confidence and emotional wellbeing.
From a mental health perspective, people experiencing domestic violence may face significant emotional distress. They may experience fear, anxiety, sadness, sleep difficulties, loss of confidence and difficulty coping with everyday life. In some cases, prolonged exposure to violence may also contribute to more serious psychological difficulties. Recognising these concerns early is important so that appropriate support can be offered.
A major challenge in addressing domestic violence is that many individuals may hesitate to speak about their experiences. Fear, social pressure, financial dependence, concerns about family relationships and lack of awareness about available support can make it difficult for a person to seek help. This makes a compassionate and non-judgmental approach particularly important when discussing such situations.
Mental health professionals have an important role in creating a safe environment where individuals can express their concerns without fear of blame or judgment. Appropriate assessment, supportive counselling and psychotherapy can help individuals understand their emotional responses and develop healthier ways of coping. Where required, further psychiatric evaluation and treatment may also form part of comprehensive care.
Professional conferences such as the WPA Regional Congress provide an important platform for discussing such sensitive topics. Academic presentations help healthcare professionals exchange knowledge, share experiences and develop a broader understanding of the social factors that influence mental health.
Dr. Suvayan Saha’s participation in WPARC 2023 reflects his involvement in academic discussions surrounding important mental health and social issues. Addressing domestic violence from a mental health perspective also highlights the need for greater awareness among healthcare professionals and society as a whole.
Creating awareness is an important step towards encouraging people to recognise harmful situations and seek appropriate support. Mental healthcare should remain accessible, respectful and sensitive to the individual circumstances of each person.
The discussion at WPARC 2023 reinforces an important message: mental health cannot be separated from a person’s safety, relationships and social environment. Greater awareness, early support and compassionate professional care can help individuals move towards better psychological wellbeing and a safer, healthier future.
