Some abused children and adolescents may turn to their relatives, friends and other loved ones for support. Others may find it difficult to talk about the abuse because of fear or reluctance to betray someone they love or care about. Friends and family members can provide valuable assistance to those coping with child abuse.

Tips for helping a loved one cope with child abuse include:

• Do not ignore signs of child abuse. These can include unexplained bruises, broken bones, sprains or other types of marks on the child that may indicate physical abuse. Behaviors including withdrawal from friends or family and mood changes such as increased anxiety or aggression and depression may also indicate abuse.
  
  
• Recognize the need for medical attention. In some cases, victims of child abuse may not be able to take the necessary steps to secure medical treatment.
  
  
• Talk to them privately and let them know help is available.
  
  
• Tell them that they deserve better treatment and that the abuse is not their fault.
  
  
• Remain supportive and tactful. It is extremely important to listen, not assume anything and let them describe the abuse in their own words.
  
  
• Confirm their feelings. Let them know that it is normal to feel scared, confused, sad or however else they may be feeling. Doing so can help them feel safe and encourages trust.
  
  
• Tell them that they did the right thing by telling and that they will soon receive  help. It is important that victims of child abuse know that the abuse will be reported to a person who is experienced in helping with these kinds of problems. This will help build a sense of trust and the child will not be surprised when they find out that other adults will be involved.
  
  
• Promptly report child abuse to appropriate law enforcement agencies. For instance, if child abuse is occurring within a family a local child protection agency should be contacted. If an abuser is someone other than a family member, local police or another type of law enforcement agency should be notified. After the proper agency is notified of child abuse, they usually conduct an evaluation and take necessary action to protect the child.