Children and adolescents

Children and adolescents who experience abuse by their legal guardians or their siblings need help. They also need help if they witness abuse in a parental relationship.

Domestic abuse has consequences for children and adolescents

If children and young people are affected by abuse in their parents' relationship, this has a detrimental effect on their development. This applies even if the abuse is not directly targeting the children. The direct use of violence against children and adolescents is prohibited.

Some children suffer in silence, others show different signs. For example:

difficulties in school, bedwetting, headaches, eating or sleeping disorders, problems in dealing with other children or aggression. It is important to seek help.

These organisations support children and adolescents

Various counselling centres advise children and young people experiencing domestic abuse.

The victim counselling centre is also there for children and adolescents affected by abuse. Confidential, free of charge and translation available.

The youth and family counselling service at the Sonnenhügel counselling and therapy centre in Glarus supports children in their healthy development. Children and adolescents can find help there, for instance with family conflicts.

Counselling and outpatient therapies at the Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Service (KJPD): For stressful situations in the family. Young people can contact the KJPD independently.

Pro Juventute can be contacted day and night. No names need to be given. The counsellor will not tell anyone about the conversation. They listen and support you in your search for solutions. Calling Pro Juventute is free of charge. Pro Juventute can also be contacted by text messages, chat or e-mail.

What can children and adolescents do?

Children and adolescents experiencing abuse at home should talk to someone outside their family. For example: teachers, school social workers, parents of friends, or neighbours. Children and adolescents can also contact the above-mentioned organisations directly.