Exploring the Impact of a No-Cost, Self-Directed Self-Compassion Intervention in Promoting Mental Health, Resilience and Self-Compassion Among Women in Violent and Non-Violent Relationships

Abstract

Limited access to social services often hinders women experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) from seeking support. This mixed-methods (survey- and interview-based) study investigated the impact of a no-cost, one-month, self-directed self-compassion intervention on women experiencing IPV compared with women in non-violent relationships. Among the 28 participants (n = 15 non-IPV, n = 13 IPV), significant improvements were noted in total self-compassion scores (F(2,52) = 6.126, p = 0.004, η²_p = 0.18), and specific domains such as self-kindness (F(2,52) = 6.552, p = 0.003, η²_p = 0.20) and over-identification (F(2,52) = 4.251, p = 0.020, η²_p = 0.14) over time. Interview findings indicated that women perceived meaningful improvements in their mental health and resilience because of the intervention, with some women in violent relationships reporting that the intervention facilitated leaving the relationship. This intervention demonstrates strong potential as an accessible, effective health promotion intervention for women in violent relationships.