Hey there. Thanks for reaching out to us here at NRS. We know that it can take a lot of courage to reach out for support, and we're glad you took that step. We're sorry to hear that your parents have been beating you--you don't deserve that sort of treatment. Calling CPS can definitely feel like a scary and overwhelming process, but it can also be helpful in ensuring your safety. If making an abuse report on your own is what's most intimidating, know that any mandated reporter (like a teacher, doctor, therapist, etc.) is required to file a report on your behalf if you disclose the abuse. If you're comfortable reaching out to one of your teachers about what's going on, they're a great place to get support and have help in filing an abuse report with CPS. You're also welcome to contact us here at NRS--we can file a report with you, or on your behalf.
If you're more concerned about what happens once a CPS report is filed, that's understandable. While we can't predict what might happen, it's good to know that caseworkers with CPS strive to make sure your safety comes first. While you spend some time thinking about next steps, consider keeping track of any incident that happens where your parents are physically abusive. Writing down the date, the time, what led up to the abuse, if anyone else saw it happen, and how they hurt you will be helpful information for the CPS worker to have should you decide to go that route. It's also a good idea to document any marks or injuries that you might've received from your parents--if there is a physical mark, take a picture. And if any point you feel unsafe, please call your local police.
One resource that you might find helpful as you think things over is the Childhelp National Abuse Hotline. They can help you work through what's going on and decide what's next. They also have resources available for you (not just CPS), that might be helpful to you. You can contact them by texting or calling 1-800-422-4453 or by chatting with them at Childhelp.org.
If you'd like to chat more with us about what's going on at home or would like us to file an abuse report, please feel free to contact us by calling 1-800-RUNAWAY or by chatting with us live at www.1800runaway.org.
Take care.
NRS
- Welcome to the National Runaway Safeline Forum. Here you can post your questions, thoughts, and concerns about what it's like to be a teenager or a parent. If there's something you've been wondering about, please ask. Chances are good that a lot of other people have been wondering the same thing. PLEASE NOTE: We are receiving more crisis contacts than usual right now. Our replies to forum posts may be delayed but we will respond to your questions as soon as we are able. Please check back frequently for updates!
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