Psychological Impact (ctd.)
Illustrative
Reflections
One participant described heightened anxiety
and isolation, which extended to a fear of further
harm to family members.
“Every message I get triggers
anxiety. Even a normal notification
feels like it could be something
harmful.”
Discussion
Psychological harm is not limited to the survivor;
it affects their ability to engage with their family,
community, and work. The social stigma
attached to reporting TFGBV intensifies these
effects, indicating an urgent need for accessible
mental health services tailored to survivors.
Another noted that survivors often lash out
emotionally, showing signs of anger or
frustration, stemming from unresolved trauma.
“I’ve stopped sleeping properly
because I replay the threats in my
mind. It’s exhausting and neverending.”
Survivors expressed hesitation in approaching
formal institutions due to fears of being blamed
or not taken seriously. A participant recounted
her experience, stating:
“The officer handling my case asked
why I gave my phone number to a
stranger, making me feel like it was
my fault.”
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