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Bruises and breaks heal, but domestic violence—also known as intimate partner violence—can leave other deep wounds that may linger long after the abuse ends.
These can encompass physical, psychological, and emotional difficulties, similar to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), according to Sherrie Campbell, PhD, clinical psychologist and author of Loving Yourself: The Mastery of Being Your Own Person.
“Wherever there is emotional or physical abuse, there will be PTSD,” she says. “That causes a range of reactions, including constant stress and ongoing emotional pain. It can take time to trust yourself again.”
We spoke to Campbell and other clinical psychologists about which long-lasting effects are most common, the strategies that can help ease those challenges, and how to regain your psychological and physical health.
Sources: MedlinePlus. Intimate Partner Violence. ... + 10
- MedlinePlus. Intimate Partner Violence. March 26, 2025.
- You and Your Hormones. Cortisol. January 2019.
- Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Trauma, Mental Health, and Domestic Violence. Accessed July 8, 2026.
- National Institute of Mental Health. Depression. December 2024.
- Harvard Health Publishing. Depression and pain. March 21, 2017.
- Office on Women’s Health. Effects of violence against women. December 6, 2024.
- Office on Women’s Health. Am I being abused? September 26, 2025.
- Shayan A, Kaviani M, et al. Relationship between General Health Indices and Sexual Dysfunction in Women Experiencing Spousal Abuse. Glob J Health Sci. 2016 Oct 1;8(10):56696.
- National Child Traumatic Stress Network. Intimate Partner Violence. Accessed July 8, 2026.
- Mayo Clinic. Child abuse. May 19, 2022.
- National Child Traumatic Stress Network. Effects. Accessed July 8, 2026.
