The Intersection of Domestic Violence and Despair

Domestic violence can be lethal.  I say this because we often forget.  Death is a part of the work that we do.   Organizations across the country are implementing Lethality Assessments to help victims plan for their safety based upon indicators of the potential for lethal behavior.  Unfortunately, death can be looming for victims in a variety of ways.  Victims may have suicidal thoughts, and abusers may threaten suicide or death of the victim and/or children.  There may also be drug and alcohol issues for either or both abusers and victims, which can result in death.  No one should have to die, in any manner, because of domestic violence.

Statistics vary on how many victims of domestic violence have suicidal ideations, thoughts, or attempts.  One website states that one in four female victims of domestic violence attempt suicide, another study indicates that women who suffer intimate partner violence are 12 times more likely to end their lives via suicide than those who have not suffered intimate partner violence.  There are still other studies focusing on patients in psychiatric hospitals and on type of treatment women receive at medical facilities.  These indicate that there is a definite correlation between suicide and domestic violence victims.  Often, domestic violence victims feel hopeless, trapped, and like there is no end.  Abusers tell victims that they cannot leave, even if they do leave, the relationship isn’t necessarily over; they may continue to stalk or harass them.  Many victims share children with their abusers, so ending the intimate relationship doesn’t end their relationship as parents of children.  Many of the symptoms of suffering domestic violence mirror symptoms of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), and this may further contribute to suicidal thoughts.  The stress of domestic violence may also worsen symptoms of existing mental health or addiction issues.

We hear many accounts of abusers threatening suicide.  This aids abusers in their manipulation and control of victims.    This is in fact so common, that it is listed on the standard instrument of indication of domestic violence, the Power and Control Wheel.  

Upon a tertiary internet search, I was unable to find any research on suicidal thoughts, ideations or attempts in those who abuse their partners, although there is some research on those who commit murder-suicides.

Drug and alcohol abuse can contribute to death in a variety of ways, including chronic health problems and poor decision-making.  Poor decision-making can contribute to many high-risk behaviors:  driving drunk, becoming violent, attempts of suicide.  Drugs and alcohol use also lowers users’ inhibitions, which may make they more like to engage in the above behavior.

Death is unavoidable for all of us at some point in time, but if we can do anything to prevent death as a symptom or result of domestic violence, we need to.  It is important to let people know that they are not alone, that domestic violence is not their fault, and that there is a way out.  If you or someone you know who is having suicidal thoughts, please refer them to Tapline (Union/Snyder Counties:  1-800-222-9016, Northumberland County:1-855-313-4387).  Also, encourage them that people are there to help them get out of an abusive situation, like the staff at Transitions (1-800-850-7948).