The mental health consequences of intimate partner violence against women in Agaro Town, southwest Ethiopia

There are very few population-based studies on the mental health consequences of intimate partner violence (IPV) from Ethiopia. This study was conducted among 510 'ever partnered' women in Agaro Town in February 2007. Mental distress and depression were measured using self-reporting questionnaires and Kessler's Scales. All types of IPV (physical, sexual and emotional abuses) were significantly associated with mental distress and depression. Women who suffered from physical, sexual and emotional abuses were more likely to have mental distress. We recommend using information education communications to educate the community and thereby preventing IPV and the mental health consequences.