Guidelines to Address the Trauma of Childhood Abuse
A new set of guidelines that aim to help mental health and social service providers better understand the complex effects of trauma on adult survivors of childhood abuse were launched on 29 October 2012.
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29 October 2012
A new set of guidelines launched today aim to help mental health and social service providers better understand the complex effects of trauma on adult survivors of childhood abuse.
The guidelines, funded by the Federal Government and developed by Adults Surviving Child Abuse (ASCA), were launched today in Canberra by Minister for Mental Health Mark Butler.
Mr Butler said the guidelines would contribute to our understanding of the implications of childhood abuse on mental health.
“Evidence presented in the guidelines indicates that complex trauma from child abuse underlies a high number of mental health problems.”
“Data collected by ASCA shows that 76% of callers who spoke about the impacts of abuse said it had affected their mental health, with many grappling with suicide or substance abuse problems.”
“Complex trauma, without the right support and treatment, can go beyond those who experienced it, affecting partners, families, communities and workplaces,” Mr Butler said.
The launch coincides with Blue Knot Day which aims to support Australians who have suffered some form of childhood trauma.
Childhood trauma can include sexual, physical and emotional abuse, chronic neglect, witnessing or experiencing family and community violence, and the effects of family dysfunction.
Visit the Adults Surviving Child Abuse (ASCA) website for more information.
For help, call ASCA's support line on 1300 657 380 or visit the ASCA website
For more information, please contact the minister’s office on 02 6277 7280
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