February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Plaquemines Community CARE Centers Foundation, Inc. (CARE Center) wants you to know that there’s a lot you can do as a parent to prevent teen dating violence and abuse.

More than 1 in 10 teens who have been on a date have also been physically abused by a boyfriend or girlfriend in the last year. One of the most important things you can do is keep the lines of communication open with your kids.

Take steps to make a difference:

Be a role model – treat your kids and others with respect.
Start talking to your kids about healthy relationships early – before they start dating.
Get involved with efforts to prevent dating violence at your teen’s school.
If you are worried about your teen, call the National Dating Abuse Helpline at 1-866-331-9474 or text “loveis” to 22522.

You can also help keep your loved ones safe and healthy by contacting the CARE Center. Our mission is to assist victims of abuse. We provide Counseling, Assessment/Advocacy, Resources and Early Intervention.

For more information, visit our website. Or, to make an appointment, call 504-393-5750.

Article provided by U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.