Divorce
When a child endures a divorce, it is one of the hardest things to hear and believe. All of your life you may have thought that divorce could not happen in your family, but then it does. You may have so many questions and don't understand why this is happening, but in time you will adjust. I did.
Three summers ago, my mom and dad announced their separation. It didn't hit me until a few weeks later when we were moving into our new apartment, without dad. It was the hardest thing I hope to ever go through. Over time, I began to accept that this is the way it was going to be. Things got better and I began to see that it's okay the way things are now. During all the drama, I always talked to my mom about how I was feeling. It is so important to have someone to talk to during these rough times. Remember to seek out people who are there to help.
A Natural Helper can be a listening ear during difficult times. In addition, here are some resources that may be helpful.
Kids First Center
The Kids First Center’s mission is to minimize the emotional and sometimes physical trauma children experience during the separation and divorce of their parents. By clicking on the link, you will have access to resources and can watch a video created by Maine kids about divorce.
http://www.kidsfirstcenter.org/video.html
National Family Resiliency Center, Inc.
A national information site for families going through separation and divorce.
www.divorceabc.com
Counseling Services Inc
http://www.counselingservices.org/
Abuse
Child Abuse is the misuse of one's power over a child or a teen. Young children are not the only victims of abuse and neglect. Every day, thousands of teens are victims, too. Many victims of physical and sexual abuse do not report the crime because of shame, guilt, fear, or the secrecy involved. If you know someone who has been abused, it is NOT their fault.
- Victims are often tricked by people who offer them love and affection or other rewards. Some are even threatened.
- Often abuse goes on for years.
- Rarely is it a one time situation.
- Emotional pain continues long after the abuse occurs. There is nothing the victim did to encourage or deserve the abuse
When anyone goes through abuse of any kind, that is a signal that you need to get help ASAP. People weren't put on this earth to be at the mercy of others. No person has the right to lay thier hand on you. If you or someone you know is being abused, please let someone know- a teacher, a counselor, a friends parents, any adult who you can trust.
Department of Health and Human Services
To Report Child Abuse or Neglect
Call 1-800-452-1999
Deaf/Hard of Hearing
TTY: 1-800-963-9490
Staffed 24-hours a day,7-days a week.
What happens after abuse is reported?
http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ocfs/cw/options.htm
