Abuse in the Family

If you or someone you know has witnessed abuse in the family or has been a victim of abuse, you may feel like you can't do anything about it. Family abuse, domestic violence and child abuse are all too common. When any one person in the family is physically or emotionally hurt by another family member, it affects everyone at home. At times, kids and teens may feel confused, scared, depressed, tense, lonely, or angry. Keeping it a secret can add to the feelings of loneliness and frustration. Some kids and teens feel guilty because they can't stop the abuse at home or think that it's their fault. Remember, if someone is hurting you it is never your fault.

Fortunately, there are people who understand what kids and teens are feeling and are available to help them. At JBWS, we have helpline counselors who are trained to listen and answer any questions about abuse in the family. Counselors can tell you about support groups for teens and other children's services offered by JBWS and in the community. To talk to someone about witnessing adult family abuse, call the helpline. To talk to someone about possible child abuse call 1-800-4-A-CHILD (800-422-4453).