Child health experts define child abuse as any harm to or neglect of a child by another person that presents an imminent risk or results in serious physical or emotional harm and, in some cases, the death of a minor. Children can be abused by parents, caretakers or other individuals.

Abuse in children may be physical, sexual, mental or emotional. It can also be a combination of any of these forms and can occur among all genders, races, educational backgrounds and socioeconomic groups. However, such abuse is more common in families with a history of domestic violence, substance abuse problems and those living in poverty or facing other socioeconomic disadvantages, including unemployment.

Regardless of its nature, child abuse is physically and mentally harmful and almost always results in psychological damage for its victims. It can lead to increased anxiety and stress, low self-esteem, learning disorders and mental illnesses including major depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

Recent research also suggests a link between child abuse and schizophrenia.

Prolonged abuse can also put children and adolescents at risk for developing substance abuse or dependence, high-risk sexual behaviors (e.g., unprotected sex, multiple sex partners), poor health, poor academic performance, suicidal ideation and untimely death.

Children are often unable to stop abuse while it is happening. However, adults can help stop abuse and initiate support for children dealing with the aftermath of abuse. The most important step is telling a trusted adult (e.g., relative, teacher, school counselor) about the abuse as soon as possible.

Abused children may find it difficult to talk about the abuse, either because of fear or a reluctance to betray someone they love or care about. Nonetheless, there is much that can be done to help an abused child.

Tips for helping a loved one cope with child abuse include:

• Do not ignore signs of child abuse such as unexplained bruises, broken bones or other types of physical abuse. Behaviors including withdrawal from friends or family and mood changes such as increased anxiety and depression may also indicate abuse. Be aware if a child needs medical attention and take steps to provide it.
  
  
• Talk to them in private and let them know help is available.
  
  
• Promptly report child abuse to appropriate law enforcement agencies, such as the U.S. Child Protection Agency or the police.

In addition, children or adolescents who have been abused should be taken to a mental health professional, typically a child and adolescent psychiatrist for a psychiatric evaluation. This will help determine whether ongoing psychological treatment (e.g., psychotherapy) is necessary for the child to cope with abuse. The psychiatrist can also provide support to other family members affected by the abuse.