- Talk to a trusted adult, such as a teacher, guidance counselor, or another family member.
- If you feel unsafe at home, you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or the National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (422-4453).
- You also can create a safety plan to protect yourself from harm:
- Identify a safe place in your home where you can go if you feel threatened.
- Keep a list of important phone numbers handy, such as the police, a crisis hotline, and a trusted adult who can help you.
- If you have to leave your home, remember to bring your phone, ID, and any other essential items.
_In addition to these immediate steps, here are some long-term strategies for coping with and overcoming the effects of childhood physical abuse:_
- Seek professional help. A therapist can help you process the trauma you have experienced and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
- Build a support network. Surround yourself with people who care about you and support you. This could include friends, family, a mentor, or a support group for survivors of child abuse.
- Practice self-care. Take care of yourself both physically and emotionally. This could include eating healthy, getting enough sleep, exercising, and practicing relaxation techniques.
- Educate yourself. Learn more about child abuse and the effects it can have on individuals. This can help you to better understand your experiences and to feel empowered to overcome the challenges you face.
- Be patient. Recovering from the effects of child abuse takes time. Be patient with yourself and allow yourself to heal.