It is also an expensive problem. The ISMA encourages physicians to routinely screen all of their patients for violence in the family. Your physician may ask you if you have been hit, kicked, shoved or scared by someone. In addition, he or she may ask if there is a gun in your home. Your physician can help you only if you answer these questions honestly.
Domestic abuse can be physical and emotional.
Symptoms such as chronic pain, migraine and other frequent headaches, stammering, sexually transmitted infections, chronic pelvic pain, stomach ulcers and spastic colon are indicators of psychological abuse as well as physical abuse. Children may exhibit stress-related symptoms such as bedwetting, stuttering, sleeplessness or poor school performance. In addition, violence in the family affects children's growth and development. If you experience any of these behaviors, the ISMA urges you to get help. Tell someone you trust such as your doctor.