Mental Health Resources for Human Trafficking Survivors and Allies

Unmet mental health needs may increase the risk of human trafficking, and trauma from trafficking victimization contributes to a wide range of adverse mental or behavioral health conditions. Studies show that individuals who have experienced trafficking may exhibit signs of anxiety, emotional numbness, memory loss, and depression. They may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a dependence on substance or alcohol use, and/or eating disorders. The consequences of trafficking can be long-lasting, impacting the individual and interpersonal relationships, and potentially resulting in intergenerational cycles of victimization. Trauma-informed mental health care should be person-centered and culturally appropriate, empowering patients with the agency to make choices that work best for their recovery. This Administration for Children and Families resource highlights resources on the importance of providing individuals who have experienced trafficking with access to trauma-informed, person-centered mental health treatment, including the U.S. Advisory Council on Human Trafficking’s inaugural report.