POLICE ASSOCIATION OF NOVA SCOTIA 95 Effects Of Child Abuse continued • Neglect: Failing to provide adequate food, shelter, supervision, education, or healthcare is normally considered to be child neglect. Prevent child abuse and neglect As a parent, you can work to prevent child abuse and neglect by ensuring that your child is always nurtured and looked after. As a friend or a relative, you can help babysit or look after children in your life and keep an eye out for any of the potential signs of abuse discussed above. You can also get involved in the local community by developing parenting resources at the local library, asking leaders to create services to meet the needs of different families, and volunteering at child abuse prevention programs. Seeking professional help through therapy and counseling If you experienced abuse as a child, it may be beneficial to seek professional help so you can address any long-term effects you may be experiencing. Both in-person and online therapy can be valid options for treatment. You may feel more comfortable trying online therapy, as you can attend sessions from home at a time that fits your schedule. When discussing vulnerable topics like abuse, it can be helpful to be in a familiar place where you feel safe and comfortable. In addition, you can choose to speak to your therapist via phone call or online chat if a video call seems too intimidating. Online therapy and counseling for child abuse survivors Although there isn’t yet much research regarding the efficacy of online therapy for adult survivors of childhood abuse, studies show that, in general, online therapy tends to be just as effective as in-person therapy. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for the help you deserve. Takeaway Child abuse and neglect can result in a variety of short-term and long-term consequences. In the short term, some of the effects children may experience can include depression, anxiety, altered sleep cycles, regressive behavior, and low self-esteem. In the long term, those who survived childhood abuse may experience health problems, develop substance use disorders, and live with impaired cognitive skills and executive functioning. www.betterhelp.com
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