Domestic violence: How to detect abuse in psychiatric patients
Identifying domestic abuse and its concurrence with psychiatric disorders is critical to treatment—and to possibly saving the patient’s life.
IF A PATIENT DENIES ABUSE
If a suspected victim denies she is being abused, schedule regular visits and let her know you are concerned. Ask how the relationship is progressing at the next monthly visit. If you fear the patient is in danger, schedule weekly or biweekly visits.
Above all, do not tell the victim what to do. Some patients are not ready to act, while others may call the local agency from your office.
Related resources
- National Domestic Violence Hotline (24-hour). 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Translation services available.
- National Resource Center on Domestic Violence. (800) 537-2238 or www.ndvh.org
- American Medical Association Domestic Violence Resources. www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/article/3216-6827.html
- American Medical Women’s Association online CME course educates physicians about domestic violence. Physicians can earn two CME credits at no charge. www.dvcme.org
Drug brand names
- Fluoxetine • Prozac
- Venlafaxine • Effexor
Disclosure
The authors report no financial relationship with any company whose products are mentioned in this article, or with manufacturers of competing products.
