In my personal experience, I am a survivor of multiple trauma events. As a survivor, I have spent my professional career researching, educating and speaking my truth for the healing of survivors, like myself.
The hope is that we can reach another level as a society. A society where the abuse of anyone, child, adult, or vulnerable adult is not tolerated. A change has started, and it is up to us to remain vigilant. Kentucky law requires mandatory reporting of child abuse and neglect (KRS 620), the abuse and neglect of vulnerable adults who have a physical or mental disability and are unable to protect themselves. If you suspect abuse of these populations, legally you must report.
Kentucky has one the highest rate of child abuse of the 50 states. That statistic is from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. As a child victim, abuse can have many traumatic effects on one’s life. Substance abuse can be the result of trauma. April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, Substance Abuse Awareness Month, Autism Awareness Month, Sexual Assault Prevention Month, and we can all learn and do more.
Public awareness, education, prevention, early intervention and trauma-centered treatment are necessary to break the cycle of violence. We need to intensify efforts to expand the availability of trauma-informed care. Trauma-informed care means treating a whole person, working through the past trauma, processing the trauma and developing coping mechanisms for the future.
Practice empathy and tolerance because you never know what someone has been through. If you or someone you love needs help, please get the help we need and deserve. There is help for victims and anyone seeking a change in life. Remember my friends and readers, embrace Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to Me, all [you] who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke [is] easy and My burden is light.”
Love God and all people. Amen.
