Abuse leaves marks that other people cannot see. It can shape how safe you feel, how much you trust, and how you view yourself, long after it has stopped. If you are carrying that, none of it was your fault. And while the past cannot be changed, the way it sits inside you can.
You can talk to someone now: 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) offers confidential support for anyone affected by abuse or violence, any time. Lifeline 13 11 14 is also there. In an emergency, call 000.
It is different for everyone. Some people feel anxious or on edge. Some go numb, or struggle with trust and closeness. Some carry shame that was never theirs to hold. These are normal responses to being hurt, not signs that something is wrong with you.
A psychologist gives you a safe, private space to make sense of what happened. The work is gentle and led by you. Trauma-focused approaches can ease the grip of painful memories, rebuild a sense of safety, and help you separate the abuse from who you are. You decide what to talk about, and when.
You do not need to have all the words ready. You do not even need to share details before you feel safe. A GP can write a Mental Health Treatment Plan for rebated sessions. If your experience left lasting trauma symptoms, our guide to support for PTSD may also be useful.
No. Responsibility for abuse always sits with the person who caused harm, never with the person who was hurt.
Only when and if you are ready. A good psychologist works at your pace and helps you feel safe before going near anything painful.
It is never too late. Therapy helps whether the abuse was recent or many years ago.
Yes, with limited legal exceptions around safety, which your psychologist will explain at the start.
Important: This is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Support is best found with a registered practitioner. If you are in danger or crisis, call 1800RESPECT 1800 737 732, Lifeline 13 11 14, or 000.
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