83 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers Family violence is a serious public health issue. It can cause a range of short-term or long-term health problems, and can even result in death. The impacts of family violence can be physical, mental, cognitive and behavioural. Family violence can also affect people's social or economic situations. For example, the experience of family violence can contribute to living in poverty, dropping out of school or having limited options for safe and affordable housing. At the same time, social conditions can affect a family's risk for violence. Poverty, a low level of education, or poor housing situations can make families more vulnerable to family violence. Research shows that the longer and more severe the abuse, the worse the health and social impacts are, and the longer it takes for families and individuals to recover. For example, if a child lives with abuse or is exposed to violence in the home, the effects on health can last a lifetime. THE HEALTH AND SOCIAL IMPACTS OF FAMILY VIOLENCE Family violence can cause a number of serious health and social problems across the lifespan Infants • Injury • Less control of emotions • Problems with parent-child bonding • Delays in growth and development Children • Anxiety • Behavioural problems • Failure at school • Problems with friendships Teenagers • Attempted suicide • Obesity • Anti-social behaviour (conduct disorder) • Alcohol and drug use • Other risky behaviours Adults • Post-traumatic stress disorder • Diseases and pain • Trouble with relationships • Lack of stable employment Older Adults • Depression and loneliness • Shorter life • Dependence • Financial problems • Problems with friendships
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