What if I don’t want my parents to find out? 

It makes sense that you don’t want your parents to find out you are getting help or worry about getting them in trouble. This fear is one reason why support services like Child Protective Services often speak with you alone, away from your parents, to ensure they are getting the full truth. Even if you are scared, it is important to be honest with whoever you talk to, because it is the only way to get the right help. You can also share your concerns about your parents finding out, and whoever you speak to will do their best to work around your fears. If your parents do find out, it’s okay. We know it might be tough, but at some point, they’ll know what’s happening because you’ve taken action and gotten help—and that’s important for your well-being. Stay strong during this time, and don’t be afraid to tell support services about any fears or concerns you have. It can help you even more.

What if I am being threatened?

(If someone is threatening you, tell a trusted adult right away—like a teacher, school counselor, or family member—even if it feels hard. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911. Also, try to tell the police or child services since they can really help. Be honest about what’s going on and make sure they understand how serious the situation is. Let them know what you want and need to happen.

What if I am being hurt by someone in my family who isn’t a parent?

If someone in your family (other than a parent) is hurting you, talk to your parent(s) for help and support. Your parents can probably help you more than many, as they are immediate family who can protect you from other family members. You can also go to another trusted adult, like a teacher, school counselor, or another family member. They can help make sure you’re safe, protect you from further harm, and get you the support you need.

What if I don’t want anything happening to my parents/family (members)? 

It’s totally understandable to be concerned about your family. You can express your feelings to a trusted adult or even a guidance counselor who might help you navigate the situation. They can work with you to address the abuse while considering your concerns and feelings. Also, calling hotlines can provide someone to talk to, and sometimes they can help you find a solution without greatly impacting your family. Remember, there’s always a way to make things better. Additionally, it is only in very extreme cases that parents and kids are separated, so please don’t let that idea discourage you from speaking up. It’s unlikely your family will face extreme consequences unless you’re in a very dangerous situation.

What if it’s one parent?

If one parent is causing you harm, it’s important to reach out for help from another trusted adult or authority figure. Talking to your other parent is one option, as they may be able to support you and help you stand up to the parent causing harm. You don’t have to face this alone—there are resources and people who care about you and want to help keep you safe and ensure your well-being.

What if I don’t want to be separated from my family?

In many cases, children are not put into foster care or separated from their family, especially if they have other family members they can live with. Being separated from your family only happens if you are living in an unsafe and or unhabitable place. Unless you are in dangerous conditions, there is no need to worry about being separated. 

If you are in those extreme conditions, there are chances you could be separated from your family. Even if you don’t want it to happen, it is for your health and well-being. You need to be in a safe home where the people around you care about you, and being put into foster care or just being separated can improve your life and keep you healthy and safe. Like stated earlier, there are always efforts to reunite parents and children in these circumstances so try not to worry. 

What if I am not separated and I must stay with my abuser?

If you are in a situation where you must stay with your abuser, it’s crucial to reach out to a trusted adult, counselor, or authority figure for support, even if you previously already have. They can help you find resources to get you out of your situation, even if it takes some time. The more you speak up the farther you go, so if you are worried about speaking up and ending up back with your abuser – it’s okay. If you tell authorities and trusted adults the full truth about what’s going on, and consistently speak up to people about what you’re going through, it’ll all end up fine. You matter, and your voice is powerful and will get you out. Keep speaking your truth, and never give up. 

What if I am being abused by someone not in my family?

The first thing you might want to do is tell your family so you can receive help and support. They can help you deal with whoever is hurting you, and they can contact authorities to help you. If you don’t want to go to your family, you can contact the police or other hotlines/authorities. With this, you can go to a teacher or guidance counselor if possible, and they can help comfort and guide you to any help necessary.