10 October 2025 marks World Mental Health Day which is a chance to reflect on the importance of mental wellbeing especially for those whose lives have been affected by abuse. Individuals who have experienced abuse, whether domestic, sexual or psychological, can experience a significant impact on their mental health and wellbeing.

Abuse doesn’t end when the perpetrator stops and the effects can linger and in some cases be lifelong. Many people who have suffered abuse can experience longstanding mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Survivors can have difficulties in their daily lives in various ways including:

• Having flashbacks and nightmares.
• Hypervigilance.
• Feeling shame and blaming themselves.
• Difficulties with trusting people due to a fear of betrayal or harm.
• Isolation as they are withdrawing from friends, family and the community.
• Challenges at work due to their mental health affecting concentration, attendance and confidence at work (often leading to financial instability).

It is important to remember that support is out there and that no one has to deal with their mental health difficulties alone.

Where to Find Support

If you or someone you know is a survivor of abuse and struggling with mental health, there are organisations that can help:

NAPAC (National Association for People Abused in Childhood)

Offers support for adult survivors of various childhood abuse.

0808 801 0331

The Survivors Trust

A network of local organisations who support those who have been raped or sexually abused.

01788 550554

Refuge

An organisation for women and children who have been involved in domestic abuse.

0808 2000 247

Mind

A charity that provides mental health support and guidance (including lots of online resources).

Samaritans

Support for those anyone who is emotionally distressed and struggling to cope.

116 123

There also might be local charities and organisations in your area that are able to support you.

It takes courage for survivors of abuse to speak up and talk about their experiences. Often people who have experienced trauma, especially as a child, will worry that their experiences will be dismissed or that they won’t be believed. There also remains a perception of stigma around discussing mental health issues which can lead to survivors being discouraged from opening up. World Mental Health Day is all about ending the worries of stigma around mental health and encouraging people to speak up.

How We Can Help

At  Switalskis we work with clients who have experienced abuse and trauma and help them to get the justice they deserve and claim compensation. We understand how difficult it can be to take the first step. Our team is here to listen, support, and guide you through the legal process with compassion and care. We are here to go through each step of the process with you and to help relieve some of the pressure and worries involved. Switalskis also work closely with organisations who can offer additional support and guidance whilst going through the legal process.

If you are considering legal action or would like to consider your options, please do get in touch with us. Call Switalskis child abuse team today to talk about your situation on 0800 138 0458 , or get in touch through our website .