Mental Health And Life Threat: Child Sexual Abuse – Learn The Red Flags

Sexual abuse is considered as one of the main causes of mental health problem among children. Based from the Child Sexual Abuse Statistics (CSAS), 1 out of every 5 children is sexually abused and 85% of the victims have not reported their abuse.

Detecting sexual abuse of children is a tricky process. Often, a child is afraid to discuss it because of a supposed fear and threat from the abuser. To detect an abused child, it is crucial to be aware of the red flags. The positive indications are as follows;

Disclosure

It is the most common way to detect an abused child. 60 to 70% of the time, a child tells directly what happens while there are those who let you know in indirect way that he or she has been abused. Always be open and accessible to whatever your child says or has to say, no matter how absurd it may sound.

Behavioral Changes

Some abused children show fear and regression. More severe cases exhibit post-traumatic stress disorder, mental health disorder and at times even suicidal. Changes in behavior also help in detecting an abused child. Although there are some kids who are resilient despite of adverse events in their lives of which behavioral changes may not show.

Physical Signs

Having your child checked by a physician for sexual injuries is crucial, especially as proof when facing the court is being held. Report it to the authority as soon as possible. Remember that problems occur when the case is being disclosed very long after the event has happened.

What’s Credible, What’s Not

Young children have not developed a concept of sexual trespass yet, so they may provide clues endemic to their own world view. Be fully aware with every statement your child has to say and avoid reacting in denial simply because you don’t believe that the person being accused is really capable of doing it. Let your child narrate her experience on her own words and try to avoid asking questions. Just stay calm and listen to him/her very well or if you can’t handle the situation on your own, get a help from a mental health specialist to proceed with an appropriate evaluation and examination.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

Experts advised that inadequate care, unstable family and the absence of feeling loved may push children to seek attention elsewhere which make them prone to certain abuse and mental health problems. It can be prevented if parents consider nurturing the family with established and consistent rules such as good communication at home, educating your child about his/her body parts or which parts are private and knowing your child’s daily routine. Constant communication is always the key to ensure that your family is on the right track, most especially the kids.