If you are experiencing sexual thoughts, urges, or behaviours involving children, you are not alone. Help is available. Seeking support before harm occurs is a responsible and protective step that keeps children safe and supports your own wellbeing.
Around the world, confidential prevention initiatives exist to help people manage these thoughts safely and legally. These services are designed to reduce risk, prevent abuse, and offer practical tools for change without judgment.
Many people struggle in silence because they fear judgment or consequences. Prevention services are created to offer support early, before any offence occurs. Reaching out does not mean you have done something wrong. It means you are taking responsibility and choosing to act safely.
Support may include:
If you are unsure where to start, international prevention platforms can help guide you toward appropriate support.
If you cannot find local services in your country, the following international resources are available and can help direct you to support.
Help Wanted
An international prevention platform offering resources to help individuals understand their thoughts and behaviours. It includes self-assessment tools and guidance on next steps, with a focus on preventing harm and supporting safer choices.
Stop it Now! is an international prevention project with centres in the USA, UK and Ireland, and the Netherlands and Belgium. They address sexual abuse through social awareness and a helpline to listen, offer advice on what to do or who to contact, and assess the risks and the steps available.
Prevent It uses a therapist-assisted cognitive behavioural psychotherapy (CBT) programme based on a new manual called Prevent it. Currently in its trial phase, this specific CBT program consists of eight short weekly modules conducted online. The main aim of Prevent It is to stop consumption of CSAM.
You can also contact a local psychological or psychiatric help centre. Mental health professionals are trained to provide confidential, non-judgmental support focused on wellbeing and prevention.
Getting help early can make a meaningful difference. Preventive support focuses on:
Viewing CSAM does not automatically lead to contact abuse, and not everyone who commits contact offences has engaged with CSAM. Because experiences differ, prevention must be personalised and based on proven methods rather than assumptions.
If you are worried about your thoughts or behaviour, seeking help is a positive and protective choice. Prevention services exist to support change, reduce risk, and protect children.
Help is available internationally. Taking action now can prevent harm and support a safer future for everyone.
