What to do if someone is hurting you

Two children hiding under a bed in a bedroom with one child covering the others mouth with their hand.

Some kids feel scared about someone hurting them

They may think it’s a secret they can’t tell anyone.

They might want it to stop but don’t know how.

They might feel really alone.

It can be scary and confusing.

   

A child hugging their knees while sitting on the ground against a brick wall outdoors.

Getting hurt, touched or made to do things you don’t like isn’t ok

Some kids feel it’s their fault. But that’s not true!

You aren’t to blame. It’s not ok if you’re being hurt by someone.

You deserve to feel safe, to be loved and cared about in a way that doesn’t hurt you.

   

A child sitting alone on grass, leaning against a tree.

Some kids worry that they won’t be believed

It can be hard telling somebody about it.

Some kids think that they won’t be believed so they don’t say anything.

They may think somebody will notice eventually or hope that it will get better on its own.

   

Two children sitting together on a wooden swing outdoors, holding hands.

It’s normal to feel uncomfortable telling someone

Some kids worry about what to say or feel really scared about it.

It can help to practice with a friend first. Or take deep breaths to stay calm.

The important thing is that you tell somebody even if it’s hard to do.

   

Illustrated portraits of several people with the words “My supports” displayed below.

Talk to an adult you trust like a parent, relative or teacher

Even when it feels really scary, it’s important to get an adult to help make it stop.

You could try telling a parent, relative or teacher.

Tell people in your life that you trust - and if they don’t help, then tell somebody else. Don’t give up!

   

A child sitting under a blanket while holding a mobile phone.

A Kids Helpline counsellor will listen

SIf you can’t tell an adult in your life then tell a counsellor at Kids Helpline.

We will listen and help you.

You are not alone

We can help you figure out what to do or how to talk to somebody in your life about what’s happening.

Contact us and talk about it with one of our counsellors. Give us a call, start a webchat, or read one of our other articles.

   

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This content was last reviewed 19/07/2018