Day 5 of #16Days: Impact of GBV on our Mental Health

I recently became a Certified SDG 3 Expert at Impaakt, holding companies and businesses accountable for their social impact on our health and wellbeing.

Coming from a patriarchal society, I been a survivor and a child to a victim of Domestic and Gender-based Violence. What I went through made me vow not to allow any child or woman face what together with my mum went through.

Gender-based violence (GBV) inflicts severe mental health repercussions on survivors, often leading to profound psychological distress and long-term trauma. I have never healed from the torture 100%.

The emotional toll resulting from such violence can manifest in various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidal tendencies.

Survivors often grapple with feelings of shame, guilt, and fear, impacting their self-worth and ability to trust others. These emotional scars can significantly disrupt daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being.

Remedies for addressing the mental health impact of GBV involve comprehensive and sensitive support systems.

Accessible mental health services tailored to survivors' needs, including counseling and therapy, play a pivotal role in helping them navigate and heal from their trauma.

Psychosocial support groups provide a safe space for survivors to share experiences, receive validation, and foster a sense of community. Like for the Women Volunteers of Peace 🕊️, you share your experience as you Empower others too.

Empowering survivors with coping mechanisms and self-care strategies helps in managing emotional distress and rebuilding a sense of control over their lives.

Furthermore, raising awareness and reducing stigma around mental health within communities is essential. Educating healthcare providers and professionals to recognize the signs of trauma resulting from GBV ensures survivors receive appropriate and empathetic care.

Building resilient support networks, both within communities and online, fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity, mitigating the isolation that survivors often experience.

Advocating for policies that prioritize mental health services and trauma-informed care within the healthcare system is crucial for ensuring sustained support for survivors of gender-based violence.

Ultimately, a holistic approach encompassing mental health support, community engagement, and policy advocacy is imperative in addressing the profound impact of GBV on mental well-being.