Can a Family Overcome a History of Abuse?

Abuse can present itself in many ways, including verbal, physical or emotional, but the long lasting and devastating effects that any type of abuse has on people and families is all the same. Families can overcome a history of abuse, but this does not come easily and will require work and professional support.

Family Counselling

If the abuse is still continuing, the first step that should be taken is to determine if it is life-threatening, or putting someone in real physical danger. If so, calling 911 should be the first priority, to make sure you or your family is safe from physical harm.

When you and your family are ready to move on from a past history of abuse, a family counsellor can help navigate these past experiences. Abuse can lead to a number of mental health concerns, including anxiety, fear, mood swings, and even depression. Because of the seriousness of these concerns, seeking out a family counsellor to overcome abuse is important. A counsellor will work with you to help sort through this, and receive proper treatment.

Therapy is also able to help the person doing the abusing. Often times, those who abuse, especially emotionally, may not be aware of why they do it, or even the effect that it is having. A counsellor will be able to work with this person to breakdown and understand why they are abusing, and how to stop.

Once both sides have begun to heal, a family counsellor can now bring the family together and begin to work on shattered bonds, and help rebuild love and trust. While it may not always be possible or the best choice to move on together, in many cases families can overcome a history of abuse.

Family counselling is a safe place, free from judgement, and completely confidential. If you are experiencing abuse, or have a history of family abuse, you may benefit from working with a counsellor.