46 L’Association de la prévention du crime du N-B Inc • Be prepared: the person you tell should take you seriously and want to help you right away. If they don’t want to get involved, you need to tell someone else. Don’t wait for things to get better on their own. NOT READYTOTALKYET? Young people who live with abuse often feel conflicted and confused. They know that things aren’t right, but they don’t feel ready to tell someone what’s happening. Sometimes, young people don’t want to talk about abuse because they feel guilty.They may feel like they’re betraying their parents or caregivers by asking for help.They may also be worried about practical things, like being separated from their siblings, or in certain cases, being deported. It takes a lot of courage to talk about abuse, so take the time you need. Until you’re ready to talk, here are some things you can do to stay safe and prepare for the next step: • create a safety plan • get involved with hobbies or social activities • identify and build your social support network • spend time with people who you know you’re safe with STAYING SAFE Keeping yourself safe is important, even if you’ve already told someone about the abuse and you’re getting help. Staying safe means not allowing yourself to be in a dangerous situation.This may mean avoiding certain family members, taking a different route home from school or calling the police when you feel like you’re in danger. It’s also important to be emotionally safe.This may mean not exposing yourself to situations that make you feel uncomfortable, or staying away from unsupportive friends. It’s a good idea to make a plan for your own safety. IFYOU NEED MORE SUPPORT, PLEASE CALL KIDS HELP PHONEAT 1-800-668-6868. KIDSHELPPHONE.CA NEGATIVE WAYS TO COPE WITH ABUSE (continued)
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