The average victim leaves her abuser at least eight times before she escapes for good. This is not an indication of failure — on the contrary, with each departure the victim usually gathers a little more information, makes another contact, builds her strength and takes an important step toward the final break.

Women who suffer abuse over long periods of time can be injured in many different ways. Death and severe physical injury are not unusual, with battering now the No. 1 cause of injury to all American women between the ages of 15 and 41. Extreme psychological damage is also possible, and may be so severe that it is utterly debilitating — especially when post-traumatic stress syndrome occurs.

Even women who have left violent relationships early, and who appear to have none of the more severe problems, report various aftereffects that may mar their ability to enjoy life. Many suffer from a vague fear of non-threatening situations, overreaction to minor disturbances, or the feeling of being stalked by a known or unknown menace. Many remain anxious, jumpy, sick with fear and terrified of men for months or even years after getting the abuser out of their lives. Most experts recommend some form of therapy as beneficial for any woman who has suffered domestic abuse.

Women in rural areas are presented with a host of unique circumstances. In addition to a lack of special services for domestic violence victims, such as shelters, many suffer from a lack of basic amenities such as reliable telephone systems, 911 service, reliable roads, available transportation, sources of child care, social services and even gas for vehicles.

Those who have spent their lives in rural settings or small communities often feel uncomfortable or intimidated by larger cities and may be reluctant to travel to seek help. In some areas, the criminal justice system remains mired in a “good old boy network” that condones inefficiency, backward attitudes, and resistance to change.

Women in farm or ranch families may also be concerned for land or livestock that depend on them for care. Sparse population means a long distance between neighbors and contributes to a psychological feeling of isolation. Just getting around may be difficult, and in many places, mobility ceases in bad weather. Migrant farm workers face all these problems, in addition to the stress and isolation of constantly moving, long hours, poverty, substandard housing and language barriers.

Carolene Britt is a counselor at Southwest Mississippi Mental Health Complex and can be reached at 601-446-6634.