Legal News
Domestic violence survivors “twice as likely to suffer psychotic illnesses” (22 April 2015)
Date: 22/04/2015
A new study has found that women who are domestic violence survivors are more likely to suffer from mental health conditions such as depression or psychotic illness.
A joint study between researchers at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience at King's College London with colleagues from l’Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal (IUSMM), and the University of Montreal found that, out of a study cohort (group) of 1,052 women who took part in the 10-year Environmental Risk (E-Risk) Longitudinal Twin Study, one-third had experienced domestic violence, such as being pushed or hit by a spouse or partner.
The researchers also found that these women were twice as likely to suffer from depression, even after factoring in experiences of childhood abuse. The women also had three times the risk of developing schizophrenia-like symptoms – this risk doubled again among the women who also had experience of being abused in childhood.
Louise Arseneault – a researcher at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience at King's College London – said:
“Domestic violence is unacceptable because of the injuries it causes.
“We have shown that these injuries are not only physical: they can also be psychological, as they increase the risk of depression and psychotic symptoms.”
Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors
Duncan Lewis is the UK’s largest provider of Legal Aid mental health services and can advise mental health patients on their rights under the Mental Health Act – including access to NHS mental health services and detention under the Mental Health Act.
There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide and our mental health solicitors are available at short notice for appointments at police stations and hospitals to advise on mental health law.
In some cases, it may be possible to advise the nearest relative or carer of a mental health patient – including initiating treatment reviews, where appropriate.
For expert legal advice on mental health law, call the Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors’ Helpline on 0203 114 1124.