Oct 23, 2020
Does Mental Illness Increase The Risk Of Domestic Violence?
There have been so many reports in the news about people with mental
illness committing atrocities such as mass shootings and other gun
violence. This has given a stigma to those who suffer from mental
illness and has left many in the public wondering if the presence of
mental illness in a partner or housemate could lead to serious, or even
deadly, domestic violence.
The answer is that it can lead to an elevated risk of domestic violence,
but the occurrence is very rare and generally related to a few specific
conditions. In fact, most people who suffer from mental illness are more
likely to be victims of domestic violence than perpetrators of it. The
two conditions that seem to be an exception to this are Schizophrenia
and Bipolar Disorder. Those two mental illnesses can bring about sudden
violent urges that can be difficult, if not impossible for some to control.
If you have been arrested for or charged with domestic assault, you need
a lawyer who understands the law and the experience to defend your
rights. If you live in Burlington, Essex, Colchester, Winooski,
Williston, Shelburne, or anywhere in the state of Vermont, and have been
arrested or charged with DUI or any crime, call Handy Law for aggressive
and experienced legal defense.