Contemplation

In Crisis? Talk Now.

If you or someone you know has been abused, seek help immediately from civil authorities, child protective services, or adult protective services. You may also seek help from a victim advocate or medical or counseling professional. These services can help protect you and prevent further abuse.

In addition, the help lines listed below are free and are staffed by people who are trained to help. These resources are not created, maintained, or controlled by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Other Online Resources

  • The National Child Traumatic Stress Network: Information on crisis hotlines, mental health guidance, help for abused or neglected children, help for sexually abused children, responding to disasters, and victim assistance and compensation programs.
  • RAINN.org (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): Programs to help prevent sexual violence, help survivors, and bring offenders to justice.
  • The National Center for Victims of Crime: Resources to assist victims of crime. Help in learning about victim rights and options.
  • Office for Victims of Crime: Resources that provide services to crime victims.

Additionally, Church leaders and members should fulfill all legal obligations to report abuse to civil authorities. No Church leader should ever dismiss a report of abuse or counsel a member not to report criminal activity. Bishops, branch presidents, and stake presidents should call the Church’s ecclesiastical help line immediately each time they learn of abuse for assistance in helping victims and meeting reporting requirements. Go to counselingresources.ChurchofJesusChrist.org for the help line number and more information.