The Long-lasting Effects of Child Abuse

People who recall being abused or neglected as a child are more likely to experience periods of anxiety or depression as adults than those where court records show maltreatment was present, but the adult does not recall it, according to a study published in the Journal of American Medicine Psychiatry. The study conducted at King’s College in London and City University in New York followed the records of 1,196 people. Furthermore, the researchers found that people who received mental health help shortly after the abuse occurred had better overall mental wellbeing.

Long-lasting Effects of Childhood Abuse

Childhood abuse can have many long-lasting physical and psychological effects, including:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Chronic pain
• Substance abuse

Desired Outcomes of Mental Health Treatment for Childhood Abuse

Usually, the best outcomes for an abused child occur when treatment begins as soon as possible after the abuse has happened. The child may need to learn to trust adults again. Furthermore, the child may need help building healthy relationships, and they may need to know how to resolve conflicts. Finally, abused children often need help building positive self-esteem.

Types of Therapy Used With Child Abuse Victims

If the abused person is still a child, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy can often help the child build stronger relationships and deal with their feelings. Other times, child-parent psychotherapy may help strengthen the bond between the parent and child.

Therapists often use dual treatment methods if the abused person is now an adult. Part of the treatment aims to help the adult deal with their current mental health challenges, while another part helps them cope with the feelings left from their childhood.

If you need treatment or your child has been abused, reach out to us today. Help is available, do not delay contacting our office.