IJSR International Journal of Scientific Research 2277 - 8179 Indian Society for Health and Advanced Research ijsr-8-1-17781 Original Research Paper Comparison of Mental Health of Women Suffering from Domestic Violence and Without Domestic Violence Juli R Dr. January 2019 8 1 01 02 ABSTRACT

 

Mental health is a level of cognitive or emotional well–being or an absence of a mental disorder. It can be achieved by preventing and treating various psychological disorders and by promoting well being. Domestic violence which refers to physical, sexual and economic abuse by an intimate partner has a potential to increase psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety, which already has higher prevalence in females. This study aimed at comparing anxiety and depression levels between violated and non–violated women. Following screening through partner violence screen, women were subjected to Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS) and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD). Result show significantly higher level of anxiety (χ2=13.47, p<0.001) and depression (χ2=12.92, p<0.001) in violated women as compared to non–violated women. Thus to conclude, routine partner violence screening of women with anxiety and depression can help in their holistic management.