The University of Glasgow recently published sobering findings in BMJ Mental Health: among 632 women aged 40–59, 14% had endured physical intimate partner violence (IPV). Even decades after the abuse—on average, 27 years later—they showed significantly higher rates of traumatic brain injury (TBI), depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, and PTSD. These are the silent wounds that last much longer than bruises—hidden in the mind, body, and spirit. And they call each one of us, as Christians, into compassionate, active response.

1. The Heart of the Matter: Brain Trauma as Emotional Legacy

Far from fleeting, these injuries echo through time and health. Those affected often share histories of repeated head blows and even TBI, with “higher lifetime and ongoing diagnoses” of mental health struggles: anxiety, depression, PTSD—all without relief years later.

Beyond Glasgow, neuropathology studies of over 80 women reveal white matter damage, vascular injury, higher risk of dementia, cardiovascular disease, and cerebrovascular issues—all stemming from IPV-related brain trauma. The scientific truth is clear: these are far-reaching, lifelong scars.

2. Biblically Called to Notice and Offer Touch

“When you see the hurt of the broken, you are called to be the hands of Jesus.”

Scripture calls the Church to lament with those who lament (Romans 12:15), to bind up the brokenhearted (Isaiah 61:1), and to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8). Yet too often, domestic violence is met with silence or dismissed as a “private matter”—leaving survivors feeling unseen and unsupported.

As followers of Christ, we must resist complacency. Real care means going beyond words to tangible support and resources for safety, healing, and reclaiming dignity.

3. Practical Compassion: Church as Sanctuary and Strength

Here’s how our faith communities can respond:

Raise awareness. Teach about IPV as a sin that corrupts God’s image in us. Use sermons, small groups, and Bible studies like “The Church’s Call to Refuge” to bring the issue into light.

Equip leaders. Train pastors, counselors, and volunteers to recognize and respond with sensitivity, not silence. Many churches still give outdated guidance asking women to “endure in submission”
—we must change that.

Create tangible support. Offer safe conversations, connections to counseling, help accessing mental health and TBI treatment, and go-to resources like the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

Partner care. Collaborate with local shelters, medical professionals, trauma-informed therapists, and legal advocates to offer holistic care.

4. Educate Faithfully: Remembering the Lifelong Implications

The Glasgow study reminds us: abuse leaves far more than emotional traces—it leaves enduring brain injury, even into mid-life. That means healing might include neurological support, mental health care, and medical follow-up—even decades later.

As Christ‑followers, we believe healing takes place in the whole person—body, mind, and soul. We must help survivors name the full impact of their pain and access the necessary care.

Jesus calls us to more than sympathy—He calls us to solidarity. We must refuse to ignore or minimize violence in homes among our parishioners. Instead, let our churches be safe spaces where women feel heard, valued, and guided toward healing.

May we be quick to listen, eager to protect, and faithful in action. For as James 1:27 reminds us, true religion that pleases God is this: caring for orphans and widows in their distress—and keeping ourselves from being polluted by the world. Let’s let this study spark both awareness and advocacy in our churches.