Recognizing Signs of Neglect

Neglect is often not as obvious as other types of abuse, but it can be equally harmful to youth. When a young person is neglected, they may develop a skewed sense of reality. Because their thoughts and feelings aren’t validated, they may feel that they don’t count or exist in the real world the way others do.

Some common signs of neglect include:

• Trouble understanding or trusting emotions
• Hopelessness
• Low self-esteem
• Perceived as cold or aloof
• Feeling as if something is missing
• Anxiety involving emotional closeness
• Chronic depression

What can you do if you see these signs in a young person you know? Teach them the importance of taking care of themselves, both emotionally and physically. Help them learn how to ask for help from others when they need it. Suggest they try activities like meditation and yoga, which bring awareness to how they are feeling. For more information about neglect, read this article in PsychCentral.