April is Child Abuse Prevention Month!

It is painful to think about children and youth experiencing abuse or neglect. Sadly, it happens every day. The CARE Center wants to share with you some of the symptoms of child abuse.

Symptoms of child abuse can include withdrawal from friends or usual activities; changes in behavior or school performance; depression, anxiety or unusual fears, or a sudden loss of self-confidence; an apparent lack of supervision; frequent absences from school; reluctance to return home; attempts at running away; rebellious or defiant behavior; self-harm or attempts at suicide or various other signs related to the type of abuse that may be occurring.

If you have any concerns, please contact the CARE Center at 504-393-5750 to schedule an assessment with a trained therapist to examine whether abuse is taking place and the best ways to address sensitive situations to ensure the safety of the child. The office staff will work with you to schedule the assessment at a time that works for the client. The assigned clinician will meet with the child and review several areas of their life in a safe environment. These services are free-of-charge.

If you are interested in learning more about child abuse prevention, please attend our free Darkness to Light training on April 19, or contact us to schedule one for your organization/group.