Role of Counseling on Victims of Domestic Violence Suffering from Depression and Suicidal Ideation

Background: Domestic violence if considered a disease would be declared a national epidemic based on the magnitude of its incidence. Among the sevenfold fatal consequences depression and low self-esteem are typical by-product of domestic violence which can lead to suicidal ideation which is an indicator of people reporting suicidal thoughts, suicidal attempt or commits suicide. Aim: The study aims at improving the capacity to enhance positive self-image and to improve their psychological well-being. Methodology: It was a hospital based study (IGH, Rourkela). By using purposive sampling technique a total of 20 female participants were selected, further participants were divided equally into control and experimental groups. Tools used were domestic violence scale for screening, Beck Depression Inventory, Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire and PGI Wellbeing Scale. Therapeutic package planned included Baseline assessment; Therapeutic alliance; Catharsis; Dealing with emotions; Learning to generate and formulate alternatives and Enhancing self-efficacy. Result: Obtained result indicates improvement in the group of experimental subjects. They exhibited positive self-image. After counseling sessions they were able to face their fears and gain control as a self-empowering act. Conclusion: The study concludes that once the individuals learn to control their negative emotions like negative self-image their psychological well-being flourished.