How to Help a Child Cope with Sexual Abuse
- HM&M
- Jun 16, 2022
- 2 min read
The trauma of sexual abuse causes ripples in families that can last generations. When a child is sexually abused, many emotions and questions will arise. The first thing to remember is to keep a safe space for the child with open lines of communication. As a parent, a trauma like this is extremely upsetting, however, it is important to keep the focus on the child and their emotions.Keep in mind that comforting words should be a part of your everyday communication with the victim. Phrases like, “can help soothe the rising anxieties within a victim.
Coping Resources for Childhood Victims of Sexual Abuse
According to
, an organization responsible for empowering adults to prevent, recognize and react to child sexual abuse, child sexual abuse is far more prevalent than most realize. In fact, they estimate
about
will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday.
While
What can you do if your child becomes a victim of sexual abuse? First and foremost, report the abuser to the local authorities. Then,
where you can learn more about your rights and how to pursue justice for your child. For our Chicagoland readers, the
can help you file a report.
More resources for victims of sexual abuse are
National Resources
Below is a list of national resources which will help in the coping process for children who are victims of sexual abuse:
Chicagoland Resources
Below is a list of resources local to the Chicagoland area which will help in the coping process for children who are victims of sexual abuse:
The above are resources for victims and their families. For a list of resources by state,
Additional Resources
If your child was a victim of sexual abuse within the
organization or by a
the following resources may be helpful:
Looking for a Sexual Abuse Lawyer?
If you have not yet found a sexual abuse lawyer to represent your child, know that you have every right to
.
The team at Hurley McKenna & Mertz has helped thousands of sexual abuse survivors, including children, on their journey to healing and justice by providing compassionate and experienced representation. Our expertise and commitment is unparalleled and result in
If you’re ready, please reach out to us and schedule a
and know that we are here to help.
