As Suicide Prevention Month takes place this September, Donegal Women’s Centre and Donegal Domestic Violence Services are calling for greater recognition of the profound impact that domestic, sexual and gender based violence can have on women’s mental health, wellbeing and lives.
A landmark Irish study, Domestic Violence and Abuse Related Suicide: Evidence from Six Years of Irish Coronial Data, found that 15 women died by suicide following documented experiences of domestic violence and abuse over a six year period.
Researchers have warned that the actual number is likely to be higher due to under-reporting and the fact that experiences of domestic violence and abuse may not always be identified or recorded in official coronial records.
In a statement, Donegal Women’s Centre and Donegal Domestic Violence Services say these findings are deeply concerning and reinforce the urgent need to understand the devastating impact that domestic abuse can have on women.
“Domestic abuse is not simply a private or family matter. It is a serious issue of safety, health, equality and human rights, and its consequences can be profound, long lasting and, in some circumstances, fatal,” the statement read
“Women experiencing domestic abuse may live with coercive control, intimidation, threats, physical violence, sexual violence, emotional abuse, financial abuse, stalking and isolation.
“The impact of living in an environment of fear and control can affect every aspect of a woman’s life. It can erode confidence and independence, damage relationships, affect employment and financial security, create housing instability and have a profound effect on physical and psychological wellbeing.
“For some women, the experience of being controlled, isolated and repeatedly subjected to abuse can create an overwhelming sense of hopelessness and entrapment.
“A woman may feel that there is no safe way out, particularly when she is facing threats, financial dependence, concerns for her children or fear that leaving may increase the risk of violence. This is why it is so important that suicide prevention conversations recognise the circumstances in which women may be living and the impact that violence and abuse can have on mental health.
“Donegal Women’s Centre and Donegal Domestic Violence Services work every day with women across Donegal who are experiencing domestic, sexual and gender based violence and the many consequences that can follow.
“Donegal Women’s Centre provides women with a safe and supportive space where they can access information, advice, support, education and opportunities that can help build confidence, independence and wellbeing. Donegal Domestic Violence Services provides specialist support to women experiencing domestic abuse, helping women to understand their options, consider their safety and access appropriate supports without judgement.
“Both organisations recognise that leaving an abusive relationship is not always straightforward and that telling someone about abuse can be incredibly difficult.
“Women can face fear, shame, isolation, financial barriers, threats, coercive control and concerns for their children. They may have been told repeatedly that nobody will believe them or that they are responsible for the abuse. This is why listening, believing and responding appropriately is so important.
“Donegal Domestic Violence Services welcomes this important research, which highlights the devastating and sometimes fatal impact domestic violence and abuse can have on women’s lives.
“The finding that 15 women died by suicide following documented experiences of domestic violence and abuse over six years is deeply concerning, and the possibility that the true number is higher should compel us to look more closely at the relationship between violence, trauma, mental health and suicide.
“Donegal Women’s Centre and Donegal Domestic Violence Services believe that prevention must begin long before a woman reaches crisis point.
“It requires investment in specialist domestic violence services, accessible mental health supports, safe accommodation, financial and practical supports, early intervention and effective responses from agencies and professionals who may come into contact with women experiencing abuse.
“It also requires society to challenge the attitudes and inequalities that allow violence against women to continue. Domestic, sexual and gender based violence cannot be addressed solely by asking women to be resilient or to leave. Responsibility must rest with perpetrators and with the systems and communities that have a role in preventing violence, protecting women and ensuring that support is available.
“As we mark Suicide Prevention Month, Donegal Women’s Centre and Donegal Domestic Violence Services are encouraging everyone to listen, to take disclosures seriously and to understand that behind every statistic is a woman whose life may have been profoundly affected by abuse.
“A woman experiencing domestic abuse may not always ask for help directly. She may be frightened, isolated or unsure of what support is available. A simple question, a non judgemental response and knowing where to signpost someone for specialist support can make a significant difference.
“We must ensure that women know they are not alone, that their experiences matter and that support is available. Every woman deserves to live free from fear, violence and coercive control. Every woman deserves safety, dignity, choice and the opportunity to build a life free from abuse.
If you or someone you know may be suffering domestic, sexual or gender based violence call the DDVS 24-hour freephone number on 1800 262 677.