BUFFALO, N.Y. — Abuse comes in different forms.
"There is sexual abuse, physical abuse, but also things like kids can witness violence in a home if there's domestic violence, gun violence, violence due to drugs, any of those type of exposures, we would call true trauma and therefore can impact the kids mental and physical well-being," according to Rebecca Stevens, Director of Outreach and Children's Advocacy for Best Self Health Behavioral.
In Erie County, Best Self estimates more than 3,000 kids are abused each year with 1 in 10 being abused by the time they turn 18. It is the second-highest rate of child abuse statewide. In 90% of these cases, they are abused by someone they know.
"Child abuse continues to be highly reported in Erie County, but we still are seeing that less than 10% of kids report and we'd really like to see all kids that are experienced abuse come forward as soon as possible to get the. That they need. "
"The average age of disclosure of child abuse is 54 years old, which means that most children go through their life, not telling anybody that this has happened. And it may create adults who think that this behavior is normal because it happened to them when they were children.," she said.
If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, the Child Advocacy Center is available. (716) 886-5437.