Domestic abuse and mental health often go hand in hand. Abuse can take a huge toll on your emotional well-being, whether you had existing mental health issues before the abuse or if they occurred because of the abuse. We know that sadly, some abusers target women who are already struggling with their mental health because women in these circumstances can be more vulnerable. At Juno, we understand how complex this can be, and we’re here to support you with compassion and care.
How Mental Health Struggles Can Make You More Vulnerable to Abuse
If you are already living with mental health difficulties – such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or bipolar disorder – it can sadly make it easier for an abuser to take control. You might:
- Struggle to trust your own judgement
- Feel like no one will believe you
- Be told by the abuser that your experiences are “all in your head”
- Rely on the abuser for care or support
- Feel too overwhelmed or exhausted to seek help
Abusers may use your mental health as a weapon – threatening to have you sectioned, take away your children, or claim that you’re “unstable.” This is coercive control, and it is abuse.
You are not to blame for your mental health. And you absolutely deserve to be safe, respected, and supported.
How Abuse Can Create or Worsen Mental Health Problems
Domestic abuse is traumatic. It often causes deep emotional harm, especially when it goes on for a long time. You may experience:
- Depression or anxiety
- Panic attacks or flashbacks
- Sleep problems or nightmares
- Low self-esteem or suicidal thoughts
If you had existing mental health issues before the abuse began, the stress, fear and isolation can make those conditions worse. It’s very common to feel broken or confused – but we want to remind you: you are not broken. You have survived, and you can heal.
Support That Understands You
At Juno, we believe mental health and domestic abuse support should go hand in hand. We offer:
- Friendly, non-judgmental support workers who understand trauma
- Help with accessing mental health services, including GPs or counsellors
- Safe accommodation for women with complex needs
- One-to-one emotional support
- Peer support through group programmes
Some of our team are survivors themselves and so they know how it feels to be dismissed or misunderstood. We are here to listen, believe you, and help you move forward at your own pace.
Final Thoughts
If you are struggling with your mental health and living with abuse, or trying to recover after leaving, please know you are not alone. Your wellbeing matters, and support is available. Healing is possible, and you deserve to feel safe, respected, and cared for.
Juno Support
Our helpline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. You’ll speak to friendly, understanding staff – some of whom are survivors themselves – who will support you without judgement. Reach out when you’re ready. They will make you feel safe and can help you move forward.