Supporting Women And Girls’ Psychological Health

Please Note: this article discusses sensitive topics, including domestic and family violence, mental health challenges, and other distressing issues. Readers are encouraged to prioritise their well-being while engaging with this content. If you or someone you know needs support, please contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) – a confidential 24/7 national counselling service for people affected by domestic and family violence and sexual assault in Australia.

The latest Thinking Futures report from the Australian Psychological Society highlights the critical psychological health challenges faced by women and girls in Australia, with a particular focus on their disproportionate experiences of domestic and family violence.

Below are some key insights from the article:

• In Australia, one woman is murdered by her current or former partner every 9 days

• 2021-2022 data showed that 13% of adults had witnessed partner violence against a parent before the age of 15

• 1 in 4 women have experienced sexual or physical violence or emotional abuse from an intimate partner

• Indigenous women are 7.6x more likely to die by homicide than non-indigenous women

• Approximately 21% of women living outside of capital cities have experienced intimate partner violence, compared to 15% of women in capital cities.

“ We need to do more to protect women and girls from enduring horrendous instances of violence that, in many respects, alter the outlook of their lives for decades.” - Dr Sara Quinn, President, APS.

Click here to read more: thinking-futures-report-2025.pdf

Psychologists play a crucial role in addressing the mental health challenges faced by women and girls in Australia, particularly those affected by domestic and family violence (DFV). The Australian Psychological Society's (APS) Thinking Futures report highlights the urgent need for enhanced psychological support and services for this demographic.

Key Ways Psychologists Are Assisting:

1. Providing Trauma-Informed Care:
   Psychologists offer trauma-focused therapy to help survivors process and heal from the psychological impacts of DFV. This care addresses common issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that often affect women and girls exposed to abuse.

2. Developing Safety and Support Plans:
   Psychologists work with clients to create personalised safety strategies and connect them with appropriate support networks.

3. Educating and Raising Awareness:
   Psychologists conduct workshops and training sessions to educate communities on recognising the signs of abuse and understanding the dynamics of coercive control, creating a more informed and supportive environment for survivors.

4. Advocating for Systemic Change:
   Psychologists contribute to national discussions and advocate for policy reforms that improve access to psychological services and address the root causes of DFV.

5. Conducting Research to Inform Practice:
   Ongoing research by psychologists provides valuable insights into effective interventions and support strategies, ensuring that services are evidence-based and specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of women and girls affected by DFV.

6. Engaging in Professional Development (PD):
   Psychologists continually engage in professional development courses to stay updated on the latest research, practices, and methodologies related to trauma, domestic violence, and working with women and girls. This ongoing education ensures that their approaches remain effective and informed by the most current evidence.

7. Adhering to Ethical Guidelines:
   Psychologists follow strict ethical guidelines, ensuring that all interventions respect client confidentiality, autonomy, and dignity. This includes maintaining the highest standards of practice when working with vulnerable populations, such as women and children, to ensure they feel supported and safe throughout the therapeutic process.

Through these efforts, psychologists are playing a vital role in breaking the cycles of domestic violence, fostering healing, and advocating for systemic changes that support the mental health and well-being of women and girls across Australia.