Domestic Violence in Mental Health: Therapeutic and Legal Intersections

Domestic violence (DV) is a global public health crisis with devastating and long-lasting consequences for individuals and communities. In the Indian context, DV typically involves violence against women by male family members or relatives, defined as a pattern of behavior used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner. Addressing the overlap between DV and mental health requires mandatory screening of women with mental health concerns for DV, coupled with providing appropriate counseling and support. Public awareness campaigns and efforts to enhance women’s empowerment are imperative to reduce societal tolerance of DV and promote equity.