As a survivor of emotional, mental, and domestic abuse, I am living proof that there can be life after trauma. However, the journey to recovery, particularly from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), can be immense and overwhelming. This petition aims to ensure that no child should ever endure such experiences, and if they unfortunately do, they should receive all the support necessary for recovery.

Tragically, I am not alone in my experiences. The National Survey of Children’s Exposure to Violence found that more than 60% of children from birth through 17 were exposed to violence, crime, and abuse within the past year alone (Finkelhor, Turner, & Hamby, 2015). Long-term exposure to these harmful environments can lead to life-altering ailments such as PTSD.

For children, the implications of PTSD can be even more significant; the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) notes that PTSD in children can result in prolonged psychological stress, impact cognitive development and learning abilities, and even cause long-lasting physical health issues (2016).

This petition calls for the implementation of preventative measures to protect children from all forms of abuse. This includes early identification systems and appropriate reporting mechanisms in all child-centric institutions like schools, hospitals, and foster homes. When abuse does occur, we demand access to effective, trauma-informed therapeutic interventions to aid in recovery and the prevention of PTSD.

The time for change is now, to safeguard our children and aid those who had no choice but to become survivors at a young age. Let's break the cycle of abuse and lend our voices to those too small to speak up. Please sign this petition to help protect our children.