How do I support my child/teen that has been sexually abused?

Believe them. Listen, help them find a professional to help them sort through their feelings and how to cope with what has happened. Allow them to vent, share and help them create an environment that is safe. OPen communication no matter how hard it is to hear or believe. Remind them it is not their fault, they are not alone in this and theyat you will be with them.

As a mother of a child who has experienced sexual abuse, the most important thing you can do is tell your child that you believe him or her. Make sure they are receiving attention from a certified therapist. Don't dwell on it. Don't be afraid to talk about it on their terms. Keep your mind and your heart open to them. Remind him or her that you love them no matter what. And do lots of things that are fun, light hearted, and up beat. It will do wonders for their spirit, and yours.

love him. protect him. talk to him. listen to him. understand him and always be there for the child. that's what i always say.

Report the abuse to the police, first of all, and then ask your child what would make him/her feel better. Look into post-trauma counseling, and perhaps therapy. Make it clear to your child that what happened to them was very wrong, and that you are sorry it happened. Ensure that he/she knows they have your full support and that they are not dirty, they are not trash, and the person had no right to treat them the way they did.

Just be there for them. Sometimes its not the talking that helps. Sometimes its really just being there for them to cry, rant, vent, or whatever else they may need. If they want to and your area has one, maybe you could check out a support group together.

Its important to be understanding. Also it may be hard for him or her to trust anyone so try to build that trust again. Seeing a therapist will help.

Let them guide you and set the pace - don't overwhelm them, but let them know you are there for them. Tell them (1) that you love them, (2) that it was not their fault, (3) that you will be there for them. If only those three messages get through, you will have done a lot. Then listen to them.

Set up professional counseling and invite them to tell you how they feel. Listen to their feelings with love and caring.

Be there for that person. Do not hover around too much as the trauma is already too much. Be There for that person. Show love and tell that person that it was okay to go through something like that. So that they don't get trapped in their own guilt and pain. They would prefer this issue to be anonymous , so only the closest must try to talk to them. Hold their hands and tell them, I'm here for you.

You have to always remind them that they are safe when they are with you. Do provide extra counseling and help if necessary to get your child to cope.