Childhood abuse and trauma are defined by the Children’s Act (1989) as actual or likely harm to a child, including ill-treatment (sexual, physical and emotional abuse) and impairment of health (physical or mental) or development (physical, intellectual, emotional, social or behavioural).
The impact of child abuse and trauma can extend well beyond childhood and adolescence. Some young people who have experienced trauma are at an increased risk of experiencing mental health problems, physical health problems and relationship difficulties in childhood, adolescence and adulthood. These experiences are significantly implicated across a wide range of mental health difficulties, making it important that you seek the right support promptly from a professional mental health provider.
