“We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear.”
– Nelson Mandela
From a young age, I experienced firsthand the prevalence of child abuse, neglect, and abandonment right in my own rural New Hampshire town. I’m Emily Aborn, the copywriter for Trauma Responsive Monadnock. It’s my work and passion to help raise awareness around the unheard voices and unseen pain as we all work together to create change in our community.
My parents were foster parents through NH DHHS and growing up, we had new children in our home frequently. We gave them a safe, warm, caring place to land; a temporary respite out of harm’s way. One young girl I’ll never forget came to our home having been verbally and physically abused. When she arrived late at night, she’d been removed from her parents who along with her siblings were living in the woods without a home. She was barefoot with only a denim skirt and swimsuit as her possessions.
The traumatic and heartbreaking stories of these children were never less painful than hers as their families and lives were dismantled overnight.
Many of my family members and friends continue to serve in this vital role as foster parents, and I appreciate the contribution they’re able to make in being a part of the change. Now, it’s my turn and yours to do more. To be aware, to take action, to make a difference. Together, we can help the children of our community to find safety, love, and healing.
Harming families, individuals, and our community, any and all abuse and mistreatment of children is too much abuse.
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to bring awareness to an issue that affects far too many children.
It’s an opportunity for communities to step up, educate themselves, and take action to protect the most vulnerable among us. We must work together to create environments where children are safe, supported, and able to thrive.
The numbers surrounding child abuse are staggering. Nationally, hundreds of thousands of cases are reported each year, and countless more go unreported.
In New Hampshire, child abuse remains a pressing concern:
- In 2022, Child Welfare Outcomes Data shows 1,034 child maltreatment victims
- Long-term effects of abuse include increased risks of mental health disorders, substance abuse, and chronic health conditions
Understanding the scope of the problem is crucial to addressing it. The more we know, the more we can do to prevent abuse and support survivors.
What Constitutes Child Abuse?
Child abuse and mistreatment can take many forms. Understanding the types of abuse is key in recognizing when a child may be in danger.
- Physical abuse: Hitting, burning, or any intentional physical harm.
- Emotional abuse: Verbal attacks, constant criticism, threats, or actions that harm a child’s self-esteem and mental well-being.
- Sexual abuse: Any sexual activity involving a child, including exploitation and exposure to inappropriate content.
- Neglect: Failing to provide essential needs such as food, shelter, supervision, medical care, and emotional support.
Recognizing the signs of abuse such as unexplained injuries, sudden behavioral changes, fear of going home, or extreme withdrawal can be lifesaving.
“Children thrive in environments where they feel safe, stable, and bonded to their family. Children in the child welfare system have suffered at least one adverse childhood experience. The more adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) a child faces, the greater the risk for poor physical and mental health, substance use, and risky behaviors in adulthood.” – New Futures, NH Kids Count Website
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) refer to traumatic events that occur during childhood, such as abuse, neglect, or exposure to domestic violence.
Research has shown that ACEs have a profound impact on a person’s lifelong health and well-being. Children who experience multiple ACEs are more likely to struggle with:
- Mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety.
- Increased risk of substance abuse and addiction.
- Chronic health conditions, including heart disease and diabetes.
Early intervention, strong support systems, and community involvement can help build resilience and mitigate the long-term effects of childhood trauma.
“[A child’s] behavior is communication. We have to listen closely enough to understand what they are trying to say.”
– Unknown
Take Action: What You Can Do to Help
At Trauma Responsive Monadnock we believe that preventing child abuse requires collective effort.
Here’s how individuals and communities can make a difference:
- Recognize the signs: If you suspect a child is being abused, don’t ignore the warning signs. Trust your instincts and take action.
- Report abuse: Know where to report concerns and find information about who to contact: NH DHHS, Granite State Children’s Alliance, Monadnock Center for Violence Prevention are all resources to educate and act
- Support families: Many cases of neglect stem from parental stress or a lack of resources. Offering support to struggling families can prevent abuse before it starts.
- Advocate for policy change: Stronger child protection laws, better access to mental health services, and community education programs all play a role in preventing child abuse.
- Be a trusted adult to the children and youth in your life. Research shows that children who experience emotional support from non-parent adults have better outcomes. Simply being a caring presence to the kids you know can help them through challenges they are facing at home.
Child Abuse is Not an “April” Issue
April may be Child Abuse Prevention Month, but child abuse prevention is not just an April issue. It’s an everyday responsibility we have to ensure every child grows up in the safe, nurturing, and harm-free environment they deserve. By staying informed, supporting those in need, and advocating for change, we can all contribute to a world where children are protected and able to thrive.
If you or someone you know needs help, here are some resources:
- New Hampshire Child Protective Services: Working to prevent abuse and neglect while preserving families
- National Child Abuse Hotline: Confidential guidance and support
- Local support and advocacy organizations: Monadnock Center for Violence Prevention and Granite State Children’s Alliance
0 Comments