Child protection experts in Australia are advocating for a trauma-informed healthcare approach, urging clinicians to consider underlying trauma from child abuse and neglect when diagnosing and treating patients. This comprehensive strategy aims to address the increasing rates of chronic illnesses and mental health issues linked to such trauma. In a British Medical Journal editorial, Professor Leonie Segal from the University of South Australia emphasizes the necessity of a whole-person care model, as there is substantial evidence connecting childhood abuse and neglect to poor health outcomes, including premature death. Many chronic conditions, such as mental illness and autoimmune diseases, are more prevalent among abuse survivors. Currently, healthcare often focuses on physical symptoms without adequately addressing the psychological factors involved. By adopting therapeutic models that recognize these hidden traumas, clinicians could improve patient outcomes while reducing unnecessary medical interventions. Segal highlights that addressing the health implications of childhood trauma is a societal responsibility, needing coordinated efforts across health, social, and economic sectors. Investments in training healthcare professionals to recognize and sensitively respond to trauma histories will enhance care quality and contribute to breaking the cycle of abuse and neglect across generations.
