Understanding the Connection Between Abuse and Physical Health: How Abusive Relationships Affect Health
Abuse in relationships can take many different forms, including physical harm and mental control. While the impacts of abuse on mental health are widely known, it’s crucial to understand that abuse can also have detrimental effects on physical health. This blog article will discuss the connection between abusive relationships and physical health, as well as how abuse can result in a number of health problems.
abuse and physical health: a connection
Our bodies release the hormone cortisol, which aids in our ability to react to dangers, while we are under stress. In short bursts, cortisol can be helpful, but when we experience chronic stress, our bodies can produce too much cortisol, leading to a range of health issues. Unfortunately, abusive relationships are a frequent source of long-term stress, which can cause an excess of cortisol to be produced as well as a variety of physical health issues.
Heart disease is one of the most severe health problems linked to abusive relationships. Chronic stress causes our bodies to create more cortisol and adrenaline, which raises blood pressure and heart rate. This can harm the heart over time and cause heart disease. Even after accounting for other risk factors like smoking and obesity, research has found that women who experience intimate partner violence have a higher risk of getting heart disease.
Abusive relationships can also cause a range of gastrointestinal issues, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Stress causes our bodies to produce extra stomach acid, which can harm the digestive tract and cause inflammation. Chronic stress can also disrupt the equilibrium of gut microorganisms, resulting in digestive issues.
Additional health problems linked to violent relationships include:
Chronic pain: Long-term stress can cause muscle tension and inflammation, which results in continuous physical discomfort.
Chronic stress can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep, which can result in persistent sleep disturbances.
Increased risk of infections: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making us more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
Substance abuse: Many people in abusive relationships turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with the stress and trauma they are experiencing, leading to a range of substance abuse issues.
Abusive relationships can have serious physical health consequences, from heart disease to gastrointestinal issues and more. If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. There are resources available, including hotlines and support groups, that can help you navigate the challenges of leaving an abusive partner and rebuilding your life. Remember, you deserve to be in a safe and healthy relationship, and there is help available to support you on your journey to healing.
-Holly