Gender-based violence is a global problem. According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), one in three women in the Americas region has experienced physical or sexual violence at least once in their lives. Starting from this point, this reality goes beyond the physical marks: it significantly impacts the mental health of those who suffer it, so it becomes essential to address this issue to prevent its harmful consequences.
The Ministry of Health (MINSA) points out that the after-effects of gender violence on women’s mental health include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), low self-esteem and suicidal thoughts. Thus, the constant fear and insecurities resulting from violence can have a profound effect on psychological health, triggering long-term problems.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused an increase in circumstances that expose women to higher levels of violence, especially for those who were confined to their abusers. In many cases, victims suffer in silence, fearful for their safety or possible retaliation. This conjuncture has intensified discrimination, stigma and fear of reporting, especially among the most vulnerable communities.
According to UN Women, in 2021, approximately 45 thousand women and girls lost their lives to their partners or other family members worldwide. In 2022, in Peru, MINSA recorded more than 17 thousand cases of violence against women, in addition, the Demographic and Family Health Survey (ENDES 2022) stated that 55.7% of women between 15 and 49 years old reported having suffered some type of violence by their husband or partner.
Faced with this reality, the collaboration between UNFPA and MINSA has resulted in the approval of Ministerial Resolution N°670-2021-MINSA, through which the “Technical Guide for the mental health care of women in situations of violence by a partner or ex-partner” is updated, establishing mandatory procedures at the national level. Such procedures involve coordination between health professionals with sexual and reproductive health professionals, care focused on the emotional and physical needs of victims, specific guidelines for high-risk cases, and consideration of comprehensive and psychosocial approaches in the management of violence against women.
Comprehensive care and ongoing emotional support are critical for victims of gender-based violence. It is essential that health personnel are properly trained to address this issue and can collaborate with services such as Women’s Emergency Centers (CEMs) to provide timely support.
Prevention of gender-based violence also involves addressing the roots of this issue, which include gender inequality, harmful stereotypes, among other factors.
The fight against gender-based violence is the responsibility of society as a whole. At Socios En Salud, we are committed to promoting gender equality, respect and empathy to create environments where gender violence has no place, with an emphasis on implementing preventive and supportive measures that foster a more equal and safe society for all women.
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