Written by Kaamilah Moola
It is no secret that gender-based violence negatively impacts the mental health of victims that experience such abuse. However the extent to which these effects prove detrimental to their general wellbeing, on a psychological level, is hugely underestimated. In light of #16DaysUofT, the important campaign advocating against gender-based violence, it's important that these effects are examined, understood and taken seriously.
First, it's crucial to delve into the cultural stigma surrounding both gender-based violence and the related discussion on mental health. When understanding the stigma surrounding gender-based violence, the systemic layers of patriarchy, race, religion, and class, play into its construction. This culture is most often bred in environments where the victims of gender-based violence are poor, undereducated, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, people of color) women. For example, 51% of women in South Africa have experienced gender-based violence. Moreover, in Kenya, the importance of establishing and maintaining a ‘strong’ marital unit, takes precedence over attention on the mental health of the victim of abuse. This culture is often maintained, in that the discussion of such issues is considered taboo. To talk about gender-based violence, especially in the domestic context as Barnett insinuates, is often painted as a weakness and rebelling against cultural norms. This culture arguably perpetuates issues of abuse, as it excuses and protects the abusers through the lack of discussion. Thus it is key to highlight that this culture is one that should be dismantled in the fight against gender-based violence.
Second, the emotional and psychological effects of gender based violence, yet discussed, are hugely underestimated. Studies have evidenced that women with histories of physical violence have significantly higher incidences of major depression, and that 50% of women who have experienced violence also have had a mental health diagnosis. The risk of developing depression, PTSD, issues with substance abuse, or suicidal tendencies is three to five times higher for women who had experienced violence. These issues play a huge role in the functioning of women in society, where their competence in the workplace, their academic performance, and their day to day activities are likely to be impacted. The way in which this affects the relationships between men and women, in the aforementioned environments, can be altered as a result of gender-based violence. This assertion is plausible on the basis of the likelihood that women may be viewed as ‘victims’ and men as ‘perpetrators’. Hence, the psychological effects of gender-based violence on women can play out in public environments that affect the general dynamics of society.
Essentially, the culture that perpetuates issues with gender based violence hinders the discussion on abuse and its relation to mental health. The psychological impacts that abuse has on women, extends into and affects the dynamics and smooth running of society in the workplace, educational environments and more generally. This urges more emphasis on the discussion and aid regarding mental health for victims of gender-based violence.
