Muscat – The Ministry of Health (MoH) has issued public guidance stressing that family stability depends on creating a safe and supportive home environment, warning that domestic violence can leave lasting psychological scars that extend far beyond physical injuries.

According to the awareness message, abuse does not only result in visible harm but may also cause deep emotional trauma that is often difficult to detect. The ministry outlined several common psychological effects experienced by victims of domestic violence, including persistent anxiety and stress, sadness and depression, fear and a loss of security, low self-confidence and poor self-esteem, emotional outbursts and irritability, sleep disturbances and difficulty concentrating, social isolation and problems communicating with others, and declining academic performance.

The campaign encourages families and communities to recognise these warning signs and respond with compassion and timely assistance. It emphasises that recovery is possible when individuals receive the right support and are not left to cope with abuse alone. As part of its guidance, the Ministry of Health advises those affected to seek help from trusted family members or reliable individuals, make use of available healthcare and support services, speak with mental health and social specialists, and avoid remaining silent when assistance is needed.

The message reinforces the importance of open communication within families and highlights the role of professional counselling in addressing the emotional consequences of violence. 

The awareness initiative forms part of efforts to promote family wellbeing and mental health across the sultanate, reminding the public that a stable family environment is built on respect, protection and mutual support.