Also, they may be dressed inappropriately for the weather.
We should be concerned when patients’ responses seem coached, if they say they are isolated from their family and community, or if they are submissive or overly timid. In addition, our suspicions should be raised if an accompanying adult guardian insists on sitting in on the appointment or translating for the child. In such instances, we may request that the guardian remain in the waiting area during the appointment so the child will have the opportunity to speak freely.2
How to help a suspected victim
Several local and national organizations help trafficking victims. These organizations provide educational materials and training opportunities for clinicians, as well as direct support for victims. The Homeland Security Blue Campaign advises against confronting a suspected trafficker directly and encourages clinicians to instead report suspected cases to 1-866-347-2423.3
Clinicians can better help children who are trafficked by taking the following 5 steps:
- Learn about the risk factors and signs of child trafficking.
- Post the National Human Trafficking Hotline (1-888-373-7888) in your waiting room.
- Determine if your patient is in danger and needs to be moved to a safe place.
- Connect the patient to social service agencies that can provide financial support and housing assistance so he/she doesn’t feel trapped by financial burdens.
- Work to rebuild their emotional and physical well-being while treating depression, PTSD, substance abuse, or any other mental illness.