Originally posted by Guest
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First, if you ever feel you are in immediate danger, you can always call 911. If you are experiencing physical abuse or excessive emotional/verbal abuse at home, we can also report what's been going on to child protective services, which could result in some people visiting your home to assess the situation. If possible, you can see if you can see a counselor through school without having to tell your parents. You can also contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness (www.nami.org) to speak to a mental health professional there.
As far as running away, it can unfortunately be pretty difficult, but we are here to talk through it. It can be helpful to think through a plan, including where you will go, who you will stay with and for how long, and who you will contact in case of an emergency. It is true that often when people your age run away, parents can call police and they can investigate where you are and try to return you home. It is unlikely you would be arrested/go to juvie.
It might be helpful to talk through more of the details of your situation with someone from our team. You can live chat us at 1800runaway.org or call us at 1-800-RUNAWAY, and we'll listen and help as best we can. You do not have to go through this alone.
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