What is the best way to go about running away

[Guest]

Hi. I'm a 14 year old living in the state of Florida. My parents were never married and have been broken up for most of my life. My mother has full custody of me. I have 3 other siblings. My relationship with my mother is terrible. We consistently argue. And there has been abuse in the past. She is always trying to tear me down verbally and makes my life miserable. Even refusing to take me to the doctor when I am sick. I constantly am used as a babysitter and do not get to do regular teenage things. I've been wanting to live with my dad now for years. Just recently I've worked up the idea of running away to my father's house with his wife. They have agreed to take me in. How do I work up the courage to leave? Can the police make me go back if I beg to stay? Will my father continue to pay child support

[ccsmod2]

Thank you for reaching out to us here at National Runaway Safeline, we understand that it takes a lot of courage to seek help. We are very sorry to hear that you do not have a good relationship with your mother. Family therapy maybe something that could be beneficial to your relationship with her. It sounds like you have been thinking about moving in with your dad and his wife. You could try asking your mom if she would allow you to move in with him. You may also want to consider asking your dad if he would file for custody of you through the court system. Child Help (1-800-433-4453) is a great resource for information on how to transfer custody.

If you decide to leave home without your mother's permission, she has the right to file a runaway report. With a runaway report, if the police find you they would return you home to your mother. Running away is not illegal but your dad could get in trouble for allowing you to stay with him without your mom's consent. If you have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us directly via our 24 hour crisis hotline (1-800-786-2929), email, or live chat.