April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Date: 04/05/19

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. It’s important that throughout this month we learn and spread awareness. We’ll discuss key topics and include links to more facts.

In 2017, there were 1,864 victims of physical abuse in the state of Indiana.

What is physical abuse?

Physical abuse is physical injury to a child by a person liable for the child’s health. This form of child abuse can impact a child in many ways. It can hurt many areas of growth.

What are possible signs to look for?

• Welts
• Human bite marks
• Bald spots
• Burns
• Skeletal and head wounds
• Lacerations
• Abrasions
• Discoloration of the skin
• Unexplained bruise marks in different points of healing

When kids who suffer physical abuse grow up to be adults, they often have a hard time in relationships. There is a higher risk they will have anxiety, depression, substance abuse, medical illness, and problems with work.

For more on recognizing abuse and neglect, visit Prevent Child Abuse Indiana's website.