There’s no question that domestic violence is a terrible and difficult thing for anyone to go through. It can make you feel isolated, scared, angry, and embarrassed. The good news is that there is a path forward. You don’t have to feel the way you’re feeling right now for the rest of your life. Learn about some of the hidden side effects of domestic violence and then find out how you can get help.
You may have serious side effects that you’re not aware of
The actual abuse itself is terrible enough but it can have a lasting effects that you may not even be aware of. Anxiety and post-traumatic stress are two issues many survivors of domestic violence deal with. These conditions don’t always feel the way you might think they will. They can present as chest pains, sweating, and pain in your arm. In short, they can mimic the symptoms of a heart attack.
Any time you have symptoms like this, you should speak with your doctor. However, once your physician confirms that it’s panic or anxiety, then what do you do? You speak to a counselor. Medication may help but really dealing with your past is the only way to move forward for good.
Other side effects of domestic violence includes suicidal thoughts, depression, and general aches and pains. Many people who deal with domestic abuse also have sexual issues or are afraid to be emotionally intimate with people. They may feel that they must always keep an emotional distance from people in their lives.
These feelings of emotional distance can have a hugely negative impact on your future. Have you ever heard anyone on their death bed say they wish they’d done fewer difficult things? Or made more money? No, by and large they talk about one thing: the relationships in their lives.
It is possible for you to create healthy relationships. It is possible to heal from the abuse you’ve suffered from. It is possible to stop blaming yourself and to come to terms with what happened. All it takes to get started is a consultation with Thriveworks Littleton Counseling & Coaching.
