By Jasmine Canady-Hartman, LCSW
NWA Women’s Shelter Therapist
Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us that healing is possible, but it is not something anyone should have to do on their own.
As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on the connection between mental health, trauma, and healing.
At NWA Women’s Shelter, we have the privilege of walking alongside survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence as they rebuild their lives. While the physical impacts of abuse often receive the most attention, the emotional and mental health effects can last long after someone has reached safety. Understanding those impacts and approaching healing through a trauma-informed lens is an important part of supporting survivors.
What Trauma-Informed Care Looks Like
Following a trauma-informed care model is important for survivors as this approach encourages survivors to reclaim their autonomy, story, and truly begin their healing journey. In this approach, we prioritize safety, trust, empowerment, and choice in the healing process.
As an agency that provides mental health support, it is important to recognize that trauma impacts the brain, body, relationships, emotions, and a survivor’s sense of safety. We have a responsibility to create an environment that is sensitive to the impact of trauma in the way we structure the shelter, guide programs, and especially in the way we talk.
Rather than asking, “What’s wrong?” trauma-informed care asks, “What happened?”
Healing is not linear, and trauma-informed care meets survivors where they are while honoring their resilience and lived experiences.
How Domestic Violence Impacts Mental Health
Experiencing domestic violence or intimate partner violence can have significant and lasting effects on mental health.
While mainstream media often focuses on physical abuse, research consistently shows that some of the longest-lasting impacts are emotional and psychological. Abuse can affect emotional well-being, self-esteem, relationships, and a person’s overall sense of stability and trust.
The reality is that leaving an abusive relationship is often incredibly complex. Survivors may face financial barriers, housing challenges, childcare concerns, and logistical obstacles that make it difficult to leave safely. Many survivors feel trapped or stuck, which can contribute to a wide range of mental health challenges, including:
- Anxiety or panic
- Depression
- Symptoms of trauma or PTSD
- Hypervigilance or feeling constantly “on edge”
- Difficulty sleeping
- Shame, guilt, or self-blame
- Challenges with trust and relationships
- Isolation and loneliness
- Grief
- People pleasing
It is important to remember that trauma responses are adaptive to unsafe environments. What may seem confusing to others—such as difficulty leaving a relationship—can often be understood as a survival response.
Healing Happens in Community
One of the most important things I have learned in my work is that healing rarely happens in isolation.
Healing happens in connection with safe people, supportive services, and community resources.
At NWA Women’s Shelter, we are able to provide wraparound services to survivors, including therapy, financial assistance, shelter, case management, housing coordination, and more. While staying at the shelter, survivors also have access to food, clothing, computers, and additional services designed to support their healing journey.
We are fortunate to live in a community rich with nonprofit organizations and partners who are committed to supporting people through difficult circumstances. I enjoy collaborating with organizations such as Community Clinic, ARcare, Samaritan Community Center, and many others to help meet the diverse needs of survivors and strengthen overall well-being.
Simple Ways to Support Your Mental Health
Mental health care does not have to be complicated or expensive. Small, consistent acts of care can make a meaningful difference.
Some supportive practices include:
- Prioritizing rest and sleep
- Eating well when you can and enjoying treats!
- Staying connected to safe, supportive people
- Moving your body in ways that feel good and accessible
- Practicing grounding or mindfulness techniques
- Setting boundaries with time and people when possible
- Journaling or creative expression
- Using opportunities to find joy and laughter
- Spending time outdoors
- Seeking professional support when needed
- Giving yourself permission to rest and heal
Self-care is not about perfection; it is about noticing what helps you feel more grounded, supported, and cared for.
Mental Health & Crisis Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. Consider reaching out to one of these trusted resources:
National Resources
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24/7.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 800-799-SAFE (7233), text “START” to 88788, or chat online for support and safety planning.
- RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline – Call 800-656-HOPE (4673) for confidential support and resources.
Northwest Arkansas Resources
- NWA Women’s Shelter – Call 479-246-9999 or 1-800-775-9011 for 24/7 crisis support
- ARcare – Integrated healthcare services, including behavioral health and counseling support.
- Arkansas Crisis Center – Compassionate crisis intervention and community education. Call, text, or chat 988 to speak to a crisis specialist.
- Community Clinic – Behavioral health services, counseling, and healthcare for individuals and families.
- NWA Equality – Provides peer support groups & resources for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
- Ozark Guidance – Comprehensive mental health services for children, adults, and families throughout Northwest Arkansas.
- Samaritan Community Center – Assistance with food, resources, referrals, and support services that help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
Remember: Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you’re reaching out for yourself or someone you care about, you don’t have to navigate difficult times alone.
A Final Thought
Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us that healing is possible, but it is not something anyone should have to do on their own.
Whether you are a survivor, supporting a loved one, or simply working to care for your own mental health, know that help is available and that every step toward healing matters.
At NWA Women’s Shelter, we remain committed to creating spaces where survivors feel safe, empowered, and supported as they reclaim their lives and move forward on their healing journeys.