Childhood neglect and abuse

If you know a child that has experienced or is currently experiencing abuse or neglect, it is essential that they find a path to safety right away. When they are no longer in immediate danger, the next step is to seek out mental and emotional support.

Each child whose life is affected by abuse or neglect will react differently to the trauma. Some may have long-term effects that follow them throughout their development while others may be able to cope and move past the abuse. There is no right or wrong response to childhood abuse and neglect, but there are many local resources available to help children heal and move forward.

School settings can be one place where the need for mental health consultation and/or treatment services is observed. Use the Stark County Schools Mental Health Directory for more information.

If you suspect someone you know may be experiencing abuse in Stark County, report your concerns to a trusted adult. Guidance counselors and school administrators are a great line of defense along with pediatricians and mental health professionals.

Neglect can be anything from a lack of food and medical care to total abandonment. Children who have experienced neglect may show the following signs:

• Behavioral issues
• Depression and anxiety
• Trouble maintaining healthy relationships
• Low self-esteem
• Problems at school
• Dirty hair, skin and clothes
• Hungry with no lunch money
• No coat, hat or gloves
• Poor language and communication skills
• Unsuitable living environment
• Untreated medical issues

References

• https://www.helpguide.org/articles/abuse/child-abuse-and-neglect.htm
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/child-abuse/symptoms-causes/syc-20370864

Child abuse is an act by a parent or caregiver that results in or risk serious harm to a child. Abuse can be emotional, physical and/or sexual. If a child often has unexplained injuries and you start to notice a pattern, it is a good idea to report the situation. You may notice changes in the a child’s actions or behaviors, these are common signs of abuse might include:

• Aggressive, destructive behaviors
• Compulsions, obsessions and phobias
• Developmental delays
• Drug or alcohol use
• Hard on themselves
• Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
• Overly affectionate towards strangers
• Lacks close relationships with parents or caregivers or avoids being alone with certain people
• Complaints of chronic pain or repeated trips to emergency room
• Physical signs such as cuts, burns, bruises, black eyes and other physical marks
• Depressed, anxious and withdrawn
• Drug and alcohol use
• Misses school or poor performance in school
• Sudden changes in behavior
• Wets the bed and soils clothes
• Big changes in appetite or weight
• Becomes sexually active at a young age
• Multiple sexually transmitted infections or early pregnancy

• Are you in crisis?
• Employment Resources
• Resources for Parents
• Behind on Rent & Utilities
• Food Assistance
• Mental Health Service Providers
• Drugs & Alcohol