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Glossary

Child abuse

What is
Child abuse?

Experiencing child abuse significantly impacts individuals in different ways. Understanding and addressing it through therapy can lead to improved well-being and quality of life.

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What Is It?

Child abuse refers to the experience of abuse at any point in someone's childhood. It is when mental, physical or sexual harm is inflicted upon a child by another person, adult or child. Often, abuse can take time to be disclosed or discovered and can lead to significant disruption of mental health in adulthood.

Common Experiences

People with experiences of child abuse may notice persistent emotional distress, shifts in mood or behaviour, and challenges with daily functioning. They might struggle to concentrate, feel physically unwell, or withdraw from social situations. The specific experiences can vary from person to person, but they often disrupt overall wellbeing.

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How It Can Affect You

Experiences of child abuse can interfere with your relationships, work, and overall well-being, whether you are a child or an adult. It may make it harder to enjoy daily life or manage stress effectively, and your behaviour towards others can be extremely affected. Survivors can greatly benefit from individualised therapeutic support and support from other survivors..

Ways Therapy Can Help

Providing coping strategies for managing the effects child abuse

Creating a safe space to explore thoughts and emotions

Identifying triggers and underlying causes

Building resilience, self compassion and letting go of shame

Frequently Asked Questions

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