New guidelines to address trauma of childhood abuse

A new set of guidelines have been launched which 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 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.

(Source: Department of Health and Ageing)