The Long Shadow of Intimate Partner Violence: Associations of Mental and Physical Health With Employment, Housing, and Demographic Factors

Ongoing health issues influence the postseparation lives of survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). This study identified associations between health following IPV and demographic, housing, employment, and social participation factors. Survivors of IPV in Australia were surveyed. Logistic regression assessed factors of interest with physical and mental health conditions. Six hundred and fifty-eight women participated. Physical health issues were associated with reduced skills and confidence in employment. A mental health diagnosis was associated with women not working as desired and lower incomes. Screening for health impacts and longer-term responses to women could reduce the long shadow of IPV impacts.

Automated summary

This study identified the associations between health issues and various factors such as demographics, housing, employment, and social participation for survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). Physical health problems were found to be related to decreased employment skills and confidence, while mental health issues were associated with unemployment and lower incomes. Screening for health impacts and providing long-term support could help alleviate the prolonged effects of IPV.