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Warning-sign checks

Child neglect and emotional abuse: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Contact emergency services immediately if the child is in immediate danger, cannot be safely supervised, has a serious injury, has attempted suicide, or has a plan and immediate intent to harm themselves or someone else.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt professional help if a child develops worsening depression or anxiety, stops attending school, runs away, uses substances, self-harms, or says they do not want to live.

    Statements about suicide should be taken seriously.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Follow-up should be based on the child's specific medical, developmental, emotional, and safety needs.

    Routine appointments may monitor growth, sleep, school progress, behavior, treatment response, and access to family services.

    Young children and children with health or developmental concerns may need more frequent review.

The article also says

Care plans often work best when health professionals, mental health clinicians, schools, social workers, and safe caregivers share relevant information.

The child's privacy and local legal requirements should guide communication.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Child neglect and emotional abuse. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.