In a recent government meeting, harrowing testimony was shared regarding the psychological impact of abuse on a young girl named Arabella. The meeting highlighted the severe emotional distress Arabella experienced as a result of her father's actions, which included nightmares, panic attacks, and an overwhelming fear for her safety and that of her family.

Arabella's mother recounted the terrifying experiences her daughter faced, including the anxiety of being picked up from school, fearing her father would harm her or her family. The mother described how Arabella's mental health deteriorated, leading to frequent panic attacks and a struggle to cope with her traumatic memories.

Counseling sessions with Ms. Bernstein were initiated to help Arabella process her trauma. However, the mother noted that access to timely mental health services was a challenge, as appointments were often booked out. Despite these hurdles, the counseling initially provided some relief, although Arabella continued to experience triggers that would lead to panic attacks.

The mother shared that journaling and drawing were recommended therapeutic outlets for Arabella. She kept two journals, which contained drawings reflecting her fears, including disturbing images of her father. These expressions of distress were frequent, indicating the depth of her trauma.

As part of her treatment, Arabella was diagnosed with PTSD and panic disorder by a psychiatrist. Instead of starting her on potentially addictive medication, the family opted for a service dog, named Joy, which proved beneficial in alleviating some of Arabella's nighttime fears and nightmares.

The meeting also touched on the emotional toll the ongoing criminal trial took on Arabella, who struggled to understand the delays in the legal process despite her willingness to share her experiences. This testimony underscores the critical need for accessible mental health resources for children who have experienced trauma, as well as the importance of supportive interventions in their recovery journey.