Should I run away?

[Amberly]

I don't feel like explaining everything, but here are the basics: My parents are verbally abusive, and occasionally physically abusive (though not dangerously, enough to ache). They hit me, and cuss me out— all the time. Everything they say is discouraging, or offensive. They adore my brother, and let him physically harass me. I'm sick of all of this, and I want to run away. The problem is, I'm only twelve, and winter is coming. What I would do is grab food, water, blankets, etc, and other essentials in a backpack, and use my money to buy a train ticket to the city. Once I got there, I would make money by panhandling, or playing my violin perhaps. How I would find shelter, I don't know, but I'd buy food, water, and whatever else I need at stores. I'm afraid of being mugged, harassed, and other stuff I don't want to say if I live on the streets. I'm too young to get a job, so that option is definitely out. I would take a new identity and start a new life. I know this would affect my whole life if this succeeded, but I can't stand my old life. I've talked to my school guidance counselor, but she is apparently powerless against my family situation, and I have considered suicide, but I decided that was the cowards way out. I'm also worried about what would happen to my friends if I left. If I run away, I might freeze to death in the cold. I'm scared I'd be turned in, which would be fine, except if they discover my true origins, and return me. What should I do? Should I stay home? Should I wait until spring? Or leave now?

[ccsmod16]

Re: Should I run away?

We’re glad you reach out to us,

Your situation sounds very unfair and we want to let you know that no one deserves this harassment. It’s smart of you to plan ahead. Clearly you’ve already begun to think about your options and also how difficult it would be to run away at your age with the limited resources you have. If you did run away, your parents could file a runaway report with your local police. This would authorize the police to return you home.

It’s really impressive to see that you have the courage to bring this up with your guidance counselor and hopefully you feel safe continuing to do so. Since you mentioned some difficulty with depression and thought of suicide, one resource that maybe helpful is 1-800-273-TALK. They can help with any depression or suicidal thoughts you might have. You also mentioned some abuse and 1-800-422-4453 is a great resource for helping youth’s such as yourself in those very tough home situations. We know it can be really intimidating to report abuse, but this organization can just answer questions you might have about what could happen if your parent’s behavior is reported or just be there to talk with you about what you’re going through.

We also encourage you to give us a call, 1-800-786-2929. We are confidential, 24/7. We are eager to help discuss what you are going through and possibly brainstorm any other options. You deserve both safety and the fairest family life. Hope to hear from you soon, we’re here for you!

National Runaway Safeline