Without help, child abuse may continue and worsen. The first step towards ending this potentially life-threatening behavior is to realize that all people have the right to be treated with respect and not be physically, sexually or verbally abused.

The most effective way a child can end abuse is by telling a trusted adult about it as quickly as possible. These adults include parents and other relatives, neighbors, friends’ parents, pediatricians, sports coaches, teachers and school counselors.  Abused children may find this difficult, either out of fear or because they do not want to betray the abuser, who may be someone they love or care about.

If abuse does not stop after others find out about it – for example, if a week or more goes by with child abuse continuing or escalating – children and adolescents are urged to keep telling other trusted adults until it stops, and even contact the police if necessary.

Generally after adults find out about child abuse, a social worker or police officer may come to talk with the child in private. The abuse should then stop. If parents are responsible for abusing their children, they may have to move out of the family home to get proper help (e.g., counseling) or the child may be removed from the home.

Children are often unable to stop abuse while it is occurring, but there are numerous strategies for dealing with the aftermath of an abusive situation. Tips for coping with childhood abuse include:

• Say “no!” as loudly as possible whenever anyone tries touching any part of one’s body in ways that hurt, feel bad or are confusing (e.g., hitting, touching private parts). The person may say it is only a game or that bad things will happen if anyone finds out, but the child should continue to object loudly. If other adults are nearby, they can help stop the abuse.
  
  
• Express feelings. Children and adolescents who have been abused may experience feelings of anger, confusion, fear, guilt, sadness or grief. It is important to take time to express those feelings and not keep them inside. Crying, drawing, writing in a diary and talking to a school counselor can provide relief. If necessary, a school counselor can refer students to a mental health professional such as a child and adolescent psychiatrist.
  
  
• Do not accept blame for the abuse. Many children may think that the abuse occurred because of something they did or did not do. Children who have been victimized should realize that no one deserves any kind of abuse. A school counselor or psychologist can help students come to this realization.
  
  
• Participate in activities that boost self-esteem. These may include playing with friends and/or pets, practicing sports, drawing, listening to music, eating favorite foods or watching humorous movies.
  
  
• Join local support groups for individuals who experienced childhood abuse. These groups can be especially helpful for people with limited personal support systems.