There are a range of services available to support children and teens who are experiencing sexual abuse or dating violence. The National Center for Victims of Crime states that approximately 1 in 10 children will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday, Further, the Centers for Disease Control state that 1 in 10 high school students have been purposefully hit, slapped or physically hurt by a boyfriend or girlfriend.

For more information about services available for youth who have experienced dating violence and/or child sexual abuse, please reach out to the agencies listed.

Youth who have experienced trauma, or have been exposed to traumatic environments can experience difficulty coping and managing emotions. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network states “A traumatic event is a frightening, dangerous, or violent event that poses a threat to a child’s life or bodily integrity. Witnessing a traumatic event that threatens life or physical security of a loved one can also be traumatic. This is particularly important for young children as their sense of safety depends on the perceived safety of their attachment figures.”

There are community resources available to help youth process through their experience and learn about healthy emotions and expression of feelings.