family and school difficulties

Hey there!

Thank you so much for contacting us at NRS during such a difficult period in your life. We are so sorry that your dad is treating you this way. He is supposed to be your parent and part of that responsibility is being an adult and treating you with love. It is unacceptable that he is being abusive. You do not deserve to be treated that way.

Our priority is first and foremost your health and safety. You mentioned that you have tried to commit suicide. Please remember that while it may not feel like your dad or the bullies at school loves or appreciates you. However, someone out there does and will feel your loss. We wanted to give you resources that will support you and explore your feelings around wanting to die; National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. They’re open 24/7 and they’re also confidential, like us.

Our second concern is with the abuse you are experiencing. This is never alright and can be damaging to your overall health and well-being. Child Help (National Child Abuse Hotline) 1-800-422-4453 can help you find ways to stop your dad from abusing you or get away from that environment. An additional consideration is potentially, talking to your school therapist about what is going on at home and at school with the bullies. They may have ideas on how to help with what you are experiencing.

If you feel like getting out of the house is the best option and you decide to run away, we can explain what usually happens. We’re not legal experts, but from our general knowledge, running away is not illegal. If you runaway, your parents can make a runaway report. The police don't always actively look for you, if they come across you, then they usually bring you home. If you explain to them that home isn't a safe place to be, they don't always return you right away. They're supposed to investigate it first. We offer to call out to youths local police, with youth, to find out their protocols and what happens if runaways refuse to go home. We can also help find runaway/youth shelters in your area, so you can stay safe.

Once again, thank you so much for reaching out. It is so courageous of you to look for support when you are feeling so low. Be gentle with yourself. You are important. Your life is important and never listen to anyone who says differently. You deserve to be treated with kindness and respect. Never take anything less.

Best wishes,

NRS

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