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Paddy Kutz -

Executive Director

Report Child Abuse

by Paddy Kutz, Executive Director, Mental Health America of Licking County

Usually I write an article about child abuse recognition and prevention during April which is national Child Abuse Prevention Month. But there is a lot of news recently, including phone calls and information sought, from citizens who want to protect children and youth.

Many people are afraid of reporting child abuse. Some think, “I don’t want the person I reported to know,” or “I’m afraid it will come back to haunt me,” or “I can’t prove it,” or “It’s not my business.” When you have concerns for a child’s well-being, you must report to the child abuse & neglect reporting line at 740-670-8860. It is the right thing to do. That number is for Licking County Children’s Services (LCCS) and they are the agency that does the investigation and findings on your report. (After 5 pm, or on weekends and holidays, call the Sheriff’s office at 740-670-5500. They work hand in hand with the trained staff at LCCS). Please keep in mind that LCCS can not usually report back to you because of the confidentiality law, so don’t expect it.

Without aware adults, some children might never receive help. Be an advocate for children by knowing the signs of abuse. Remember, you are reporting suspicion of abuse and even if you aren’t sure, let authorities check it out. You might save a child’s life!

There are many kinds of abuse and none should be ignored: physical, sexual, emotional, and neglect. The consequences of ignored abuse of any kind impact that child and family the rest of their lives. Actually, it impacts all of us in some way. Being abused does not lead to good mental health and without good mental health there is no health. Secrets keep us sick, so report the abuse and be part of the solution to better mental health.

I can not list every sign or symptom but will give you some common indicators.

Signs of physical abuse can include: unexplained bruises, welts, burns, behavioral extremes (withdrawal, aggression, depression), inappropriate or excessive fear of persons (parent, guardian, relative, neighbor, etc.), antisocial behavior (substance use, truancy, running away, fear of going home), unbelievable or inconsistent explanation for injuries, telling lies, etc.

Signs of sexual abuse can include: the victim tells you (believe them), regressive behaviors, promiscuity or seductive behaviors, disturbed sleep, decline in school performance, physical indicators such as bloody underwear, infections, pain, irritation of the genitals, etc.

Signs of emotional abuse can include: eating disorders, speech disorders, developmental delays, nervous disorders (rashes, hives, facial tics, stomach aches), habit disorders (biting, rocking), cruel behavior, age-inappropriate behavior or extremes, etc.

Signs of neglect can include: poor hygiene, unsuitable clothing, untreated injury, prolonged exposure to the elements (sunburn, insect bites), weight significantly below age level, chronic absenteeism, chronic hunger or tiredness, assuming adult responsibilities, reporting no caretaker at home, etc.

Mental Health America of Licking County has provided Child Abuse Prevention in our schools (pre-school to 4^th grade) since 1984. To schedule a program for your students or group please call us at 740-522-1341. You may also email for information or to schedule at prevention@mhalc.org. We do not charge schools for our services. For older youth we have programs to educate about respect, bullying, self-esteem, understanding mental health & mental illnesses, violence prevention, suicide prevention, healthy relationships and more. Contact us at mhalc@alink.com or call the number listed above. We also provide supports and programs for parents and guardians. Give us a chance to help you deal with the demands made on you.

Do the right thing for your family and our community…..report abuse when you are concerned about a child, youth or adult.

Mental Health America of Licking County is partly funded by United Way and the Community Mental Health & Recovery Board.