Child Abuse
All States have developed definitions of child abuse. Some States refer to child abuse in general terms while others are more specific. The three major categories of child abuse are neglect, sexual abuse/exploitation and emotional abuse. Each of these is an overwhelming topic, and they often overlap. What is perceived as traumatic to one person may not be so to another. If you know a child is being abused or are concerned this may be occurring, phone your local Child Protective Services for a consultation. Children who have experienced any degree of abuse by others should be evaluated by a mental health professional.
Individuals who have experienced child abuse may experience a continuum of effects from the straightforward and mild, to intense and complex. Trauma is an actual or perceived injury to the body or mind. When it is an injury so horrible that we cannot absorb it, we are thrust into a state of shock. At times, memories of child abuse may be stored in the mind and not activated until a later age.
Adults who experienced abuse as children may have clear recall regarding the events, or may have vague memories. This is an individual experience; the significant issue is current impact. It is important that we seek help in areas of our life where we are blocked from reaching our potential. If you experienced abuse as a child you are not alone, and recognizing what has happened to you and speaking about your experience is one of the most vital components in the healing process. If you think that you have been a victim of sexual abuse, take action immediately, so your life will not be undermined by the past one day more. Get help.
Patients who suffer from anxiety or distressing memories, nightmares, or insomnia from sexual abuse or other traumatic events can now gain relief from EMDR.
Research shows that EMDR is rapid, safe and effective. It is a trauma treatment and does not involve the use of drugs or hypnosis. It is a simple, non-invasive patient-therapist collaboration in which healing can happen effectively.
This powerful short-term therapy is highly effective for a wide range of disorders. Many clients who have made slow progress in the past, or who have not benefited from more traditional therapies say that with EMDR they have finally found something that reduces their distress.