Women who have survived domestic violence may face a higher risk of brain injuries and mental health conditions even nearly 30 years after the abuse has ended, according to a new study.
The research, published in BMJ Mental Health, found that women exposed to intimate partner violence (IPV) were significantly more likely to suffer from traumatic brain injury (TBI), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety well into mid-life.
Globally, around 30% of women experience domestic violence. In the UK, more than 1.2 million women and 550,000 men aged 16 to 59 report having been victims of domestic abuse, according to recent figures.
Researchers from the University of Glasgow studied the long-term effects of domestic violence on brain health. Their findings showed that mental health problems can persist for an average of 27 years after the abuse ends.
The study involved 632 women aged 40 to 59, who were part of the wider PREVENT Dementia Study. Fourteen percent of the participants said they had experienced physical abuse in past relationships. These women were far more likely to report symptoms of PTSD, sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression than those who had not experienced violence.
Notably, women with a history of abuse were also more likely to have experienced traumatic brain injury. The research found strong links between past abuse, brain trauma, and ongoing mental health struggles—decades later.
The study, titled Intimate Partner Violence, Traumatic Brain Injury and Long-Term Mental Health Outcomes in Mid-Life: The Drake IPV Study, was funded by several major institutions, including the Drake Foundation, NHS Research Scotland, and the Alzheimer’s Association.
Professor Willie Stewart, who led the study, emphasized the public health importance of the findings. “Given how common domestic violence is, these results show its serious and long-term impact on brain health,” he said. “This area needs far more attention.”
Co-author Dr. Graciela Muniz-Terrera added: “This research shows why it’s crucial to ask about domestic violence in health studies. Understanding the long-term effects can help improve care for survivors.”
