The Psychological Trauma of Domestic Violence: A Hidden Mental Health Crisis in Pakistan

Domestic violence is a prevalent societal issue across the globe. Though it is something that affects people of all genders, women and trans people are more prone to it than men. Also, as per research and new reports, women from third-world countries tend to be more impacted by domestic violence than those residing in developed countries.

According to the Pakistan Gender News, as many as 5,112 cases of violence were reported in the year 2024, from January to November. These cases include abductions, torture, rape and battary. What needs to be mentioned here is that this is the number for ‘reported’ cases. Thousands of such cases go unreported, and no one really gets to know about them. Such cases end up making the victims suffer even more. And this time, it is the psychological part of them that gets affected. 

Domestic violence comes in various forms and manners. No matter how it displays itself, it leaves permanent marks on the psychology of the victim. If not given treatment at the right time, these psychological scars can deepen, leaving an intense impact on their well-being.

In this article, we shall talk about the psychological trauma of domestic violence in detail and discuss it as a hidden mental health crisis in Pakistan. We shall also mention how SehatYab is taking prominent actions when it comes to helping the victims of mental health issues emerging from domestic violence. 

Understanding The Psychological Trauma of Domestic Abuse

PTSD, also referred to as post-traumatic stress disorder, is a result of consistent domestic abuse or violence. This psychological condition can impact the first-hand victim of abuse and even those who had to witness it for a long period. 

Trauma response is different for everyone. Where some will respond by developing PTSD, others may not end up like this. However, it is necessary to understand that if abused for a very long period, the victim can have a massive impact not only on his cognitive functioning but also on how he perform physically. 

Domestic violence victims live in a constant fear of being mistreated. They are perpetually anxious. As violence is a regular part of their lives, their ability to lead a peaceful life is hindered. Such people are constantly exhausted and tired. On top of that, if they develop PTSD, they may end up getting flashbacks and even nightmares. While performing their regular tasks, they may have intrusive thoughts that will impact their ability to do things properly. 

Insomnia, tiredness, and exhaustion are a regular part of a person having PTSD. Words and actions are major triggering points. 

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A Hidden Mental Health Crisis in Pakistan

Domestic violence is quite common in Pakistan. It is so common that for a lot of households, it is a ‘regular’, ‘normal’ action and not even a concern. 

According to the Pakistan Demographic & Health (PDHS) Survey, at least 34% of married women in Pakistan have reported being abused either physically, mentally, or sexually in their domestic settings. These are the ones who opened up to the questions. Millions of women don’t talk about being victims owing to the societal pressure and lack of support.

Seeking legal help is a tough task! Women victims in Pakistan don’t get support from their homes and can’t opt for the legal way out. Hence, they are stuck in an abusive household forever. As a matter of fact, only 3% of women are able to get legal help and take action against abuse. 

Being helpless further makes the matter worse for these victims. With the fear of stigma, they are not able to even open up to their friends and relatives. What further silences these abused men and women is the social shame, traditional and cultural norms, and financial dependence. As they don’t have any backing, be it financial or otherwise, they are not able to speak up!

With time, the victim of domestic abuse develops a distorted self-perception. Women who are constantly abused, isolated and let down in a domestic household have eroded confidence. The never-ending gaslighting and emotional manipulation lead to them internalising a negative self-perception.

Soon, the victims start feeling powerless and end up accepting their ‘fate’. They feel like this is a ‘normal’ lifestyle, and they learn to live with it. 

The lack of ‘support’ and the chances to ‘escape’ the domestic abuse keep the victim in a perpetual state of mistreatment. It has a massive impact on psychological well-being. This is why it is necessary to provide these victims with appropriate and timely psychological help to help them lead a normal life once again.

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What Does SehetYab Offer?

SehetYab, an online psychological help platform, helps victims of domestic abuse get help. A team of expert psychologists and psychiatrists is available online to help them get professional aid. The best part about this platform is that the abused doesn’t have to even step out of the house to get any assistance. Rather, everything is provided to them in the comfort of their home virtually, while ensuring privacy and convenience. 

If you are a victim of domestic abuse or know someone who is, don’t wait! Connect with the experts at SehatYab and get a consultation.