Child Abuse Prevention Month: Learn the Signs

Child abuse is more common than you may think. According to the CDC, one in seven children experiences abuse or neglect. But everyone can play an essential part in protecting children from abuse and strengthening families.

As part of Child Abuse Prevention Month, we encourage you to connect with your community, work together and recognize the signs of abuse.

Signs and or symptoms that may be displayed by children who have been abused include:

• Unexplained injuries, such as bruising
• Poor peer relationships or inability to relate to children of the same age
• Constant hunger, tiredness, or lack of energy
• Excessive fear of parent(s), caregiver(s), or going home
• Depression or excessive crying
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Withdrawal from others
• Nausea/upset stomach
• Clinging to parents
• Change in school performance
• Sexually inappropriate behavior
• Lying
• Change is appetite
• Nightmares
• Anger and mood changes
• Avoidance of school/friends
• Aggressiveness
• Rebelliousness
• Fears and phobias
• Attention-seeking

Consequences to Victims and Society

• Drug and Alcohol Dependence
• Depression, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, and Anxiety
• Eating Disorders
• Debilitating Fear, Nightmares
• Delinquency
• Teen Pregnancy
• Sexual Disorders, Prostitution
• Increased Illness, Hospitalizations

 You can learn more about the free and confidential survivor support services we offer through our Survivor Support Department by clicking here.