The Silent Cry for Help: Recognising Child Abuse and Taking Action

Did you know that many cases of child abuse go unnoticed because the signs aren’t always obvious? Children may not always be able to express what they’re going through, making it essential for parents, teachers, and community members to recognize the warning signs and take action.

Recognising the Signs of Child Abuse

Children experience and respond to abuse in different ways. While some signs may be physical, others manifest emotionally or behaviourally. Key warning signs include:

• Unexplained injuries – Frequent bruises, burns, cuts, or fractures that don’t match the child’s explanation.

• Behavioural changes – Sudden aggression, withdrawal, anxiety, or fear of certain people or places.

• Emotional struggles – Low self-esteem, depression, excessive fearfulness, or sudden mood swings.

• Regression – Reverting to earlier childhood behaviours, such as bed-wetting or thumb-sucking, as a response to trauma.

• Avoidance of school or activities – A sudden reluctance to attend school or participate in once-enjoyed activities.

Children with special needs or those who are non-verbal may be more vulnerable. Changes in their behaviour—such as repetitive movements (stimming) or sudden outbursts—can signal underlying distress.

What to Do If You Suspect a Child Is Being Abused

If you recognize these warning signs, taking swift action is crucial to ensure the child’s safety and well-being. Here’s what you can do:

1. Ensure immediate safety – If the child is in immediate danger, call the police at 999.

2. Seek medical assistance – If injuries are present, take the child to a doctor and express any concerns about possible abuse.

3. Report the abuse – In Singapore, cases of child abuse can be reported to the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) at 1800-777-0000.

4. Consult expert resources – Organisations like Big Love, HEART@Fei Yue, and PAVE provide professional support and child protection services.

5. Provide emotional support – Create a safe, trusting space where the child feels comfortable expressing their feelings.

6. Encourage professional counselling – Trauma-informed therapy can help a child process their experiences and rebuild emotional resilience.

   
   

How Inside Out Counselling & Wellness Can Help

At Inside Out Counselling & Wellness, our trauma-informed practitioners specialize in supporting children and families affected by abuse. We offer:

• A Safe, Supportive Environment – We create a space where children feel heard, validated, and empowered.

• Evidence-Based Therapeutic Interventions – Our therapists use approaches like play therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), and trauma-focused therapy to help children process trauma and regain emotional stability.

• Parental Guidance & Family Support – We equip caregivers with the tools to foster a stable, nurturing home environment.

• Resilience & Emotional Regulation Skills – Therapy helps children build self-esteem, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of safety.

Protecting Children Is a Shared Responsibility

Child abuse prevention is not just the responsibility of social workers or law enforcement—it’s something we all play a role in. By staying vigilant, reporting concerns, and offering support, we can make a real difference in a child’s life.

If you suspect abuse, don’t stay silent. Trust your instincts, speak up, and seek help.

At Inside Out Counselling & Wellness, we believe every child deserves a safe and loving environment. If you’re concerned about a child’s well-being or need support, reach out today. 

Our team is here to help.

📞 Contact us to learn more about our child trauma counselling services and how we can support healing and recovery.