E/R: Suhum Let's Talk to Stop Domestic Violence- Municipal Director

Domestic violence, which encompasses intimate partner violence, refers to physical, sexual or psychological harm done to an individual by a current or former partner or spouse. Domestic violence is associated with a range of physical and mental health effects.

The Suhum Municipal Director, Mr Ernest Teteh speaking with Accra fm/CTV news reporter Apelete Kofi-Michel, said Domestic violence can affect anyone and unfortunately has become common in our society. More than one in three women, and one in four men, have experienced physical violence, rape or stalking victimization by an intimate partner in their lifetime.

Help is available, National Domestic Violence make sure your experience is counted, let's talk.

Physical violence is when a person hurts or tries to hurt a partner by hitting, kicking, or using another type of physical force. Sexual violence is forcing or attempting to force a partner to take part in a sexual act, sexual touching, or a non-physical sexual event (e.g., setting) when the partner does not or cannot consent to the action.



He added that Psychological aggression is the use of verbal and non-verbal communication with the intent to harm a partner mentally or emotionally and/or to exert control over a partner. Although domestic violence affects individuals across race/ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic background, it is most prevalent among adolescents and young.



Women of diverse racial/ethnic backgrounds experience disproportionately high rates. Other risk factors for domestic violence include low income and lower educational status, exposure to adverse childhood experiences, being unemployed, and being a member of a sexual minority.



In addition, women with severe mental health difficulties are more likely to be victims of domestic violence. Regardless, given the high prevalence of IPV, everyone could be at risk.



Being a victim of domestic violence is linked to an increased risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and suicide. Exposure to traumatic events can lead to stress, fear and isolation, which may lead to depression and suicidal thoughts or behaviour.



They may blame themselves for their situation or feel anger and resentment toward themselves. After enduring abuse, survivors may experience difficulties in new relationships.

Additionally, more than half of female homicide victims in Ghana, are killed by a current or former male intimate partner, according to Ghana crime reports.



Some of the Chiefs who came to witness the launch also spoke with Accra fm/CTV news reporter Apelete Kofi-Michel, who expressed their joy for this program, and how to educate the citizens about domestic violence.