At Switalskis, we know that reaching out to speak about abuse—especially childhood abuse—is never easy. If you’re reading this, you may already be in the middle of a legal process, or you may still be thinking about taking that first step. Either way, we want to take a moment this Mental Health Awareness Week to talk about something way more important than your legal case: your mental health .

Your wellbeing matters

Survivors of abuse often carry heavy emotional burdens: grief, anger, confusion, fear, and shame. These feelings can be incredibly difficult to manage, and going through a legal process may bring some of those emotions to the surface.

We want you to know what you're feeling is valid, and actually completely normal for someone who has experienced childhood abuse. And you don’t have to go through it alone.

Common emotional challenges you might face

Many of our clients have told us they felt:

• Anxious about reliving past trauma
• Drained or overwhelmed after appointments or paperwork
• Triggered by certain questions or legal documents
• Unsure whether it’s “worth the stress” to carry on

These responses are entirely normal. Seeking justice is incredibly brave, but it’s also emotionally demanding. Thousands of survivors across the UK are speaking out, seeking justice, and starting to heal.

We’re here for you

At Switalskis, we work with survivors who have shown incredible courage in coming forward. Our role isn’t just to represent you legally, it’s to support you with care, compassion, and understanding.

If you’re struggling with your mental health, please let us know. We can slow things down, explain anything you’re unsure about, and point you toward support if you need it.

Mental health support services

If you're looking for someone to talk to, here are a few trusted organisations that offer free and confidential support:

• Mind – Support for anyone experiencing a mental health problem
   0300 123 3393 |  www.mind.org.uk
• The Survivors Trust – Support for survivors of sexual violence and abuse
  0808 801 0818 |  www.thesurvivorstrust.org
• Samaritans – Available 24/7 if you need someone to listen
   116 123 |  www.samaritans.org
• NAPAC (National Association for People Abused in Childhood)
   0808 801 0331 |  www.napac.org.uk

There are many more national and local groups and charities offering support that we are happy to help you identify and access.

If you need confidential legal support, contact us. Call on 0800 1380 458 or email amy.clowrey@switalskis.com.