GBV and trauma

Understanding how gender-based violence affects survivors' mental health, and where to find safe, confidential support in South Africa.

2 min read · Awareness resource · Reviewed 2026-09-15

If you have experienced gender-based violence, please know this: it was not your fault, you are not alone, and support is available. What you are feeling now, whatever that looks like, is a valid response to something that should never have happened to you.

What it is

Gender-based violence, or GBV, includes physical, sexual, emotional and financial abuse, and can happen in intimate relationships, families, workplaces or communities. The trauma of GBV often affects the mind and body together - it can shake a person's sense of safety, trust and self-worth, sometimes for a long time afterwards. Everyone's experience and healing process looks different, and there is no timeline you need to follow.

Signs to notice

Persistent fear, anxiety or hypervigilance, even after leaving the situation
Flashbacks, nightmares or intrusive memories of the abuse
Difficulty trusting others, or withdrawing from relationships and support
Shame, self-blame or a diminished sense of self-worth
Physical symptoms such as chronic tension, headaches or sleep problems
Difficulty concentrating at work, or feeling unsafe in ordinary situations

What helps

Prioritise your physical safety first - this may mean a safety plan or trusted support to leave a harmful situation
Reach out to someone you trust, or a trained counsellor, rather than carrying this alone
Be patient and gentle with yourself - healing from abuse is not linear
Reconnect gradually with activities, people and routines that feel safe and grounding
Consider trauma-focused counselling, which can help process what happened at a pace that feels manageable
Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness

When to reach out for help

Reach out immediately if you are in danger or fear for your safety. Reach out to a professional if you are struggling to function day to day, feel constantly unsafe, are experiencing flashbacks or panic, or simply want support to make sense of what happened. A professional can assess your needs without judgement.

Getting help in South Africa

Cleared Mind's EAP counsellors provide confidential, non-judgemental support for anyone affected by GBV. The GBV Command Centre offers 24-hour support, counselling and referrals to shelters and legal help.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, reach out now. SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline (24h): 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393. SAPS 10111, ambulance 10177, GBV Command Centre 0800 428 428.