April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

In honor of the month, Ama Bortsie visited Mass Appeal to speak about the work being done in our community to help prevent child abuse and neglect.

Signs of Child Abuse or Neglect

Physical abuse signs are often the most obvious and include injuries, bruises, burns, and even bone fractures.

Sexual abuse signs can include a child is having inappropriate sexualized behaviors with other children.

Any change in patterns like not wanting to engage in activities they enjoyed before, being more distant, being irritable, not eating, etc. could be a sign that they is experiencing abuse or neglect.

Reporting Anonymously

If you suspect a child is a victim of abuse or neglect, contact a mandated reporter. These are people in the community required to submit a written report to DCF within a 48 hours of the report. They include: teachers, nurses, police officers, social workers, human service professionals, and clergy members. The Child-at-Risk Hotline can be reached nights, weekends, and holidays at (800) 792-5200.

About Helix Human Services

Helix Human Services provides trauma-informed therapeutic and educational services to diverse children and families, building the foundation for lifelong success at home, school, and in the community. We do everything in our power to help traumatized children, families, and adults find their resilience and strength.

Learn more

Also read: Flag Raising for Child Abuse Prevention Month

See the Mass Appeal segment here.

Read more about reporting here.