Adults can be a supportive resource if you need help or advice.
But, it might be difficult or scary to get an adult involved. Many teens feel that adults can’t understand the situations they’re facing.
If your friend is experiencing abuse, they may worry that their parents may blame or punish them for being in an abusive relationship. It’s important for your friend to decide who they want to talk to. Some things to consider:
refer to resources, help them safety plan, talk to parents, etc.)
Consider all the adults you know (parents, teachers, coaches, youth ministers, youth
officers, school counselor) before making your decision.
After talking, your friend may not want to involve an adult. Respect your friend’s decision
and wait until they’re ready.
However, if you think your friend is in physical danger go ahead go ahead and involve
an adult that you trust. Let your friend know that you are concerned for their physical
safety and that you need to let someone else know what is going on.
Also, if you need someone to talk to, you can approach an adult to talk with them about
your experience and feelings without disclosing your friend’s name or identifying details
about their situation. It’s normal to feel stressed out and in need of support when you’re
helping a friend, so go ahead and reach out. Consider calling our hotline (1.800.899.4000)
if you don’t want to talk to someone you know. Trained staff and volunteers can talk you or
your friend through the situation in a confidential manner. Don’t feel like you have to go
through this alone.
