CALL THE NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE HOTLINE:

• If you are stressed to the point of harming your child.
• If you need information concerning domestic violence, parenting, adult survivors, custody concerns, or related issues.
• If you want information about agencies in your area that can help.
• If you want to know what abuse is, the signs of abuse, Shaken Baby Syndrome, and how to report these.
• If the system has failed you.
• If you need someone to listen.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU CALL 1-800-4-A-CHILD? (1-800-422-4453)

• A counselor will answer and say "Childhelp Crisis Counselor, how may I help you?
• Then the Counselor will listen to whatever is bothering you and will (try to) answer your questions.
• The Counselor will ask you questions to be sure he/she understands what you are saying.
• The Counselor's goal is to help you find some things you can do to get help such as speaking to a friend, relative, teacher or school counselor.
• If you are in danger, the Counselor will help you contact someone such as Child Protective Services, or the police. If needed the Counselor will stay on the phone until you are receiving help.

DON'T WORRY ABOUT...

• your conversation being taped. Your call is confidential.
• someone asking your name. The Hotline is anonymous.
• the call showing up on your phone bill. It won't.

FACTS ABOUT CHILD ABUSE:

• Child molestation remains a crime most often perpetrated by relatives and acquaintances rather than strangers. (United States Department of Justice)
• The actual incidence of abuse and neglect is estimated to be 3 times greater than the number reported to authorities. (United States Department of Justice)
• More than half the child victims of rape or sexual assault are age 12 or younger. (United States Department of Justice)
• Head trauma is the leading cause of death among babies. This included Shaken Baby Syndrome (the manual shaking of a baby in a whiplashing motion). (United States Department of Justice)
• More than 3 children die each day as a result of parental maltreatment. (National Committee to Prevent Child Abuse)
• An estimated half of all homes with adult violence also involve child abuse or neglect. (United States Advisory Board on Child Abuse and Neglect)

Special Thanks go to Childhelp USA® for allowing CommunityResources.net to provide this helpful information to our visitors. Visit their web site at http://www.childhelpusa.com.

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