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Understanding the Link Between Mental Health and Domestic Abuse

This World Mental Health Day, Southend-on-Sea City Council is shining a light on the importance of mental wellbeing and raising awareness of how domestic abuse can affect emotional health.

Domestic abuse can have a lasting impact on survivors. Many people experience anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or feelings of isolation, which may continue long after the abuse has ended.

Research shows that:

• Women experiencing domestic abuse are more likely to develop mental health problems.

• Women already living with mental health difficulties are more likely to experience domestic abuse.

• Between 30% and 60% of women with mental health conditions have experienced domestic abuse.

According to the charity Refuge, around three women a week die by suicide following domestic abuse. This highlights how deeply connected domestic abuse and mental health can be, and the importance of raising awareness to help save lives.

You can learn more about this important topic and access resources for professionals and residents through the Southend, Essex and Thurrock Domestic Abuse Board (SETDAB) website.

If you or someone you know needs help or advice, support is available across Essex through:

📞 COMPASS – the Essex Domestic Abuse Helpline and Referral Service

Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or someone else, COMPASS provides confidential advice and can connect you with the right support.

➡️ Call 0330 333 7 444

➡️ Visit https://www.essexcompass.org.uk

This World Mental Health Day, let’s take time to look after ourselves and each other. By increasing understanding of the link between mental health and domestic abuse, we can help build a safer and more supportive community for everyone in Southend.

Wednesday, 1 October

The Council is proud to support the UN International Day of Older Persons under the 2025 theme:
“Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being and Our Rights.”

This year’s theme highlights the vital role older persons play in shaping resilient and equitable societies. Their experience and knowledge contribute to health equity, financial well-being, community resilience, and human rights advocacy.

It is also an important moment to recognise the challenges that some older people face, including the often-hidden issue of domestic abuse. Abuse can affect anyone, at any age. Older people may experience physical, emotional, financial, or controlling behaviours that can deeply impact their well-being and independence.

By raising awareness, we can help ensure that older residents know they are not alone, that support is available, and that their rights to safety, dignity, and respect must always be protected.

We invite residents across Essex to join us in both celebrating the contributions of older people and standing together to end domestic abuse in all its forms.

Need help or advice?
If you, or someone you know, is experiencing domestic abuse, please reach out.
Visit Essex Compass or call their advice line on Call 0330 333 7 444  for confidential support and information.

We’re committed to inclusive support and safety for everyone.