Episode 41: The Long-Term Effects of Abuse on Mental Health
Abuse doesn’t end when the relationship does. Its impact lingers—sometimes for years—reshaping the way survivors see themselves, others, and the world around them. In this episode of Almost Oblivious, host Autumn Baker explores the long-term effects of abuse on mental health, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and the invisible wounds survivors carry long after leaving.
We are also sharing exciting personal news—Zack and I are expecting our first child! With pregnancy and managing narcolepsy, the episode schedule may shift, but my passion for sharing survivor-centered conversations remains stronger than ever.
This episode covers:
How abuse rewires the brain and nervous system.
The connection between trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and complex PTSD.
Invisible wounds: shame, guilt, and self-blame.
How trauma shows up in the body and relationships long-term.
Paths to healing: therapy, community, grounding, and self-compassion.
A short guided reflection for survivors.
💙 Whether you’re a survivor yourself, a loved one, or simply someone who wants to understand more, this conversation is here to remind you: you are not broken, and healing is possible.
🔗 Resources:
National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV). (n.d.). Domestic violence and mental health statistics. Retrieved from https://ncadv.org/STATISTICS
Reports that approximately 64% of women and 15% of men who experience domestic violence develop symptoms of PTSD.
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). (2014). Long-term mental health effects of intimate partner violence. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4282026/
Highlights increased risks of depression, anxiety, and PTSD among survivors of long-term abuse.
American Psychological Association (APA). (2023). The lasting impact of trauma. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/trauma
Discusses how trauma rewires the brain and nervous system.
Herman, J. L. (1992). Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence—from Domestic Abuse to Political Terror. Basic Books.
Foundational text on complex PTSD and how prolonged trauma shapes mental health.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2014). Trauma and Justice Strategic Initiative. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/trauma-violence
Explains the connection between trauma, physical health, and mental illness.
Harvard Health Publishing. (2021). The gut-brain connection. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/the-gut-brain-connection
Outlines how trauma and stress can trigger digestive issues.
World Health Organization (WHO). (2021). Violence against women prevalence estimates, 2018. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240022256
Global statistics on abuse and its long-term health consequences.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
📞 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
💬 Text “START” to 88788
🌐 thehotline.org
24/7 confidential support, safety planning, and resources.
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