Journey from domestic violence to self-reliance: A case report from a tertiary care crisis center

Domestic violence and abuse (DVA) remains a major public health and human rights concern, with profound consequences for women's physical, psychological, and socioeconomic well-being. We report the case of a 32-year-old married woman and mother of two who experienced prolonged domestic violence, including physical, emotional, and economic abuse, compounded by her husband's alcohol dependence. Economic abuse escalated when debt incurred through a self-help group loan, intended to support the family's livelihood, was transferred to the survivor, reinforcing financial dependency and coercive control. Following a severe episode of physical violence that resulted in her displacement from the marital home, she sought support through a hospital-based crisis center established within a tertiary care women's hospital. Through crisis intervention, structured counseling, legal guidance, child welfare support, and employment assistance, the survivor achieved financial independence, secured safe accommodation, and initiated steps toward legal separation. This case highlights the often-overlooked role of economic abuse and debt bondage as mechanisms of control within abusive relationships. It also demonstrates the value of integrated, hospital-based crisis services and intersectoral collaboration in supporting survivors of violence. Strengthening routine identification of DVA within healthcare settings, expanding access to crisis centers, and promoting women's economic empowerment may contribute to improved safety and long-term recovery for survivors.