Tell Someone
One of the scariest things to do is to tell someone what's going on when you're being abused. It's even harder when the person who's hurting you is your Mom or Dad or someone you love. The abuser may also be threatening you. They might be telling you that if you tell you'll be in trouble or that they will hurt you more. There are ways to find help without having to worry about the abuser finding out that you told.
My mom always told me to go to school and tell a teacher. Your teacher is required by law to contact the Department of Children and Families and report the abuse. They do not have to give DCF your name or any details. All your teacher has to do is say that she or he suspects the abuse.
There are also Abuse Hotlines that you can call. These are safe places where you can talk about the abuse. You don't have to give them your name. In some cases you can even make up a fake name if you want.
