How to talk to a trusted adult
You don’t need the perfect words. You just need a start.
Who could it be?
A school counselor, teacher, coach, school nurse, doctor, relative, a friend’s parent, a youth leader, or a faith leader. Pick someone who listens and has been kind to you before.
Ways to start
- “Can I talk to you about something private? It’s hard to say.”
- “Things at home aren’t okay, and I don’t know what to do.”
- “I’m not safe at home.”
- Can’t say it out loud? Write it on paper or in a text and hand it to them.
Good to know
- Teachers, counselors, nurses, and doctors are often mandated reporters. If you tell them you’re being abused or neglected, they have to report it to child protective services. That’s meant to protect you. You can ask first: “If I tell you something, who would you have to tell?”
- If the first adult doesn’t help, tell another one. Keep going until someone does.