What We Know
There are different forms of abuse and any form can happen at any age level. Abuse is defined as maltreatment through physical, sexual, emotional, verbal or symbolic acts. These acts are non-accidental and can result in physical and/or psychological harm [1]. Presently in 2020, current reports show 1 in 7 children have experienced child abuse and/or neglect [2], 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men have experienced domestic abuse in their lifetime [3], and 1 in 10 people age 60 or older have experienced elder abuse [4].
How It Affects Our World
Not only is the victim of abuse affected, but his or her relationships can be affected as well. Abuse can cause higher risk for some health problems, cognitive abilities, depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric disorders. Stress, fear, and trust can also be problems that affect the victim in his or her current and future relationships [5].
What We Can Do About It
At Finding The Light Project we will always highly recommend professional medical and mental health providers as the foundation of treatment. Beyond that, we are here to provide you with knowledge, theological reasoning and encouragement. We invite you to subscribe and explore how you can find light in the darkness. It’s time to find hope and happiness once again!
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 9-8-8
Resources
[1] American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association.
[2] National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (2020). Preventing child abuse & neglect. Washington DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Violence Prevention.
[3] National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (2020). Domestic violence. Retrieved from https://assets.speakcdn.com/assests/2497/domestic_violence-2020080709350855.pdf?1596811079991.
[4] National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (2020). Preventing elder abuse. Washington DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Violence Prevention.
[5] Child Welfare Information Gateway. (April, 2019). Long-term consequences of child abuse and neglect. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Children’s Bureau.