How Families Can Support Themselves and Others to Prevent Child Abuse

Child Abuse Prevention Month is observed in April, but it is important year-round to take notice when someone needs help  – or know when to ask for that help yourself. A network of caring relationships can help families cope during stressful experiences, reducing the risks of child neglect or abuse.

“Loss of a job, a divorce or a death are just a few of the major life events that would cause significant stress for anyone and is especially difficult for those who lack support or coping skills,” said pediatrician Amy Gavril, MD, MSCI, FAAP. “Some people who grew up with violence, trauma, or neglect may find themselves caught in the same patterns they knew as children. It can be hard to build positive parenting skills when your family legacy is filled with trauma that never healed.”

Parents need to take care of themselves before they will be able to help their children, similar to the instructions heard on an airplane—"Put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others."

The AAP offers some suggestions for families who are struggling:

• Identify your circle of support. Parenting is hard, especially when families have experienced difficult times. No one should try to do it alone. Counselors, physicians, family and friends, faith communities, and others in your community can be part of a support system or sounding board.
• Take care of yourself physically. Eat healthy, get enough sleep, practice an exercise routine, take care of your medical needs, and give yourself some child-free time to relax.
• Identify things you love to do and make time for them.
• Identify ways that help you calm down or handle stress when it happens. Take a walk, practice deep breathing, talk to friends, meditate, or pray.
• Take time to think about what happened in your own childhood and how it could be affecting you now. If this is difficult or painful, consider getting support from a counselor or simply ask someone you trust for help.
• If you're struggling, realize that your child needs you to protect them. In fact, you may be the only one who can help them through this.

Medical professionals are aware that trauma and abuse can have long-term effects on their patients and are learning when and how they can help. The AAP has launched the National Center for Relational Health and Trauma-Informed Care to help provide training and resources.

“Remember that you are not alone,” Dr. Gavril said. “Your pediatrician can help identify helpful resources for you and your family. Counselors, therapists and fellow parents can provide the caring network you need, especially if you yourself are a survivor of abuse or neglect.”

Resources:

• Child Abuse and Neglect: AAP Policy Explained - HealthyChildren.org
• When Things Aren’t Perfect: Caring for Yourself & Your Children - HealthyChildren.org

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The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 67,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.