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If This Story Feels Close to Home

The Child’s Eyes series discusses trauma, abuse, generational pain, addiction, depression, and emotional struggles.

For some readers, these topics may bring up difficult memories or emotions.

If that happens, please pause and take care of yourself.

Reading about trauma can stir things that have been quiet for years. That does not mean something is wrong with you. It means your experiences matter.

You do not have to navigate those feelings alone.

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If You Are in Crisis

If you are in immediate danger, call 911 (U.S.) or your local emergency services.

If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or overwhelming emotional distress:

United States
Call or text 988
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7, free, confidential)

You can also chat online at 988lifeline.org

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If You Are Experiencing Abuse

If you are currently experiencing domestic violence or abuse:

National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.)
Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Text “START” to 88788
Available 24/7, confidential

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

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If You Are Struggling with Addiction

SAMHSA National Helpline (U.S.)
Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Free, confidential treatment referral and information service.

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Outside the United States

If you live outside the U.S., please contact your local emergency services or search for a national mental health, crisis, or domestic violence support line in your country.

Most countries have free crisis services available.

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A Personal Note

These books are written to bring understanding — not to reopen wounds without support.

If something in these pages reflects your life, please know this:

You are not weak because of what happened to you.
You are not broken because of what you survived.
And seeking help is not failure.

It is strength.

Healing often begins with honesty — and sometimes with reaching out.

You deserve support.

— Ed Rivera