Will I be moved?

[Guest]

I'm calling the Department of Human services (CPS in Iowa) and I was wondering if this is enough to get me out of my abusive household: I've self harmed a lot, I've attempted suicide multiple times, I'm verbally & mentally abused, and my parents own drugs. I need out of the house before I do anything drastic or run away. Please tell me if that is enough for me to live with somebody else.

[ccsmod13]

Hi there,

Thank you for reaching out to NRS. Asking for help is really brave and takes a lot of strength. Home is supposed to be somewhere safe and you deserve to feel supported. You have mentioned a few things that make us concerned for your safety regarding your parents not providing a safe or healthy living environment. Abuse of any kind is never okay.

It sounds like you’re quite overwhelmed by things at home right now and like you’re fearing that the situation may end in suicide if things don’t change. Your safety and well-being is important. If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 (www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org) is always available if you need someone to talk to about how you have been feeling. Often, having a safe space to share how you’re feeling may bring a variety of solutions previously not thought of. Reaching out to a school counselor or another adult that you trust could also be a good outlet for you as well. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. This may be an isolating and lonely time for you, but you are not alone in this. We want you to know that we are here as support to help you through this challenging time.

Your parents are supposed to make you feel comfortable at home and from what you shared they are not doing that. Calling CPS is a really good step to take to get help. After making a report, a caseworker will likely come to your home to talk to you and your parents to decide if it is safe for you there. We cannot say for sure what the outcome will be as it is up the discretion of the social worker. This can be a scary decision to make and you do not need to do this alone. If you need any support with the reporting process or you would like more specific information about possible outcomes, you can call the national child abuse hotline at 1-800-422-4453 or go to https://www.childhelp.org/hotline/. Additionally we are here by phone and chat 24/7 to listen and help.

Please do not hesitate to reach out by phone (1-800-786-2929) or chat with us at 1800runaway.org if you want to talk more about your situation and your options.

Be safe,
NRS