Protecting children from abuse and neglect is a community responsibility.  Most adults want to help but are unsure of how to get involved.  If you think a child is being abused or neglected, you should report it as soon as you become aware of it.

Signs of child abuse or neglect may vary based on the type. Here are some common signs:

Unexplained injuries, such as bruises
Extreme behaviors, such as excessive crying, truancy or running away
Poor hygiene and unsuitable clothing
Excessive fear of parent(s), caregiver(s) or going home
Depression or excessive crying
Poor peer relationships or inability to relate to children of the same age
Sudden change in behavior
Constant hunger, tiredness or lack of energy
Attention-seeking behaviors

Any act that causes harm or threatens the risk of harm to a teen by an individual who is in a current or former dating relationship with that teen. Teen dating abuse may be physical, sexual, financial, verbal or emotional in nature. While abuse often occurs as a pattern of controlling behavior, a single episode of abuse is cause for concern.

It is important for parent(s) to know whom your teens are dating and to talk with them about healthy relationships. Keep in mind that some teens may mistake attention as expressions of love when in fact they are warning signs of control

Signs that a teen may be a victim of an abusive relationship:

Giving up things that are important
Isolation from friends
Changes in appearance, weight, grades or behavior
Unexplainable injuries
Fear of making partner angry
Preoccupied with pleasing partner
Apologizes for partner’s behavior
Excuses to questions about the relationship

If you or someone you know is being abused by a partner or family member, it is important to get help safely.  If a victim chooses to leave an abusive relationship, for various reasons, it may take multiple attempts to leave.  Providing non-judgmental support is critical.

Signs to be aware of if you suspect someone is being abused:

Physical injuries such as broken bones or unexplained bruising
Claims of being “clumsy” or “accident prone”
Frequent absenteeism or tardiness
Isolation
Harassing phone calls, text messages, emails or notes on cars
Comments about stress at home
Talking about the spouse or partner’s anger or temper
Leaving work early or coming in late
Making mistakes on the job

The signs that elder abuse may be occurring include the following:

Unexplained signs of injury
Untreated physical problems such as bed sores
Behavior from the elder that mimics dementia such as rocking, sucking or mumbling to oneself
Broken bones, sprains or dislocations
Caregiver’s refusal to allow you to see the elder alone
Torn, stained or bloody underclothing
Unusual weight loss, malnutrition or dehydration
Unsanitary living conditions such as dirt, bugs, soiled bedding and clothes