The Relationship Between Intimate Partner Violence and Mental Health Outcomes Among Afghan Refugees Residing in Torbat Jam Camp, Iran

Background With the rising global population of refugees and migrants—especially women—intimate partner violence (IPV) has emerged as a pressing concern. Studies indicate that nearly one in three women worldwide face IPV, a phenomenon linked to serious health outcomes such as anxiety and depression. These mental health conditions may not only result from IPV but may also increase vulnerability to it. This research explores the frequency of IPV and associated psychological disorders among Afghan refugee women living in the Torbat Jam camp in Iran. Method A cross-sectional design was employed in this study, utilizing simple random sampling to evaluate both mental health status—using the DASS-21 scale—and the incidence of intimate partner violence, measured through the Haj Yahya Violence Against Women Questionnaire, among married Afghan refugee women residing in Iran's Torbat Jam camp. Results Out of 226 surveyed women (aged 17 to 68, with an average of 19.3 years living in Iran), approximately 15% were pregnant. Most participants were homemakers, and 65% reported having experienced intimate partner violence, with psychological abuse being the most prevalent form. A significant correlation was found between IPV and mental health indicators, including stress, anxiety, and depression, collectively accounting for 45% of the variance observed in IPV incidence. Conclusions Ensuring the mental well-being and safety of refugee women against intimate partner violence is an essential pillar of effective humanitarian assistance and public health planning. Interventions must prioritize both prevention and psychological support to mitigate the dual burden of IPV and mental distress in this vulnerable population.