Abuse
Abuse is any form of behavior where someone crosses your boundaries, causes harm, or takes power over you. This can happen within families, relationships, schools, online, or in the community. Often, abuse is done by someone the victim knows or trusts, which can make it even harder to recognize or talk about.
Many people doubt themselves, minimize what happened, or wonder if it was ‘bad enough.’ Those feelings are very common. Abuse often develops slowly and can be confusing. Feeling unsure does not mean it wasn’t real.
Understanding Abuse
If you clicked on this page, you might be feeling confused, scared, or unsure about something that happened to you or someone you care about. The most important thing to know first is this:
What happened is NOT your fault.
Not then. Not now. Not ever.
Important Things to Know
- Abuse is never the responsibility of the person experiencing it
- Freezing, staying silent, or going along with something does not mean consent
- Abuse can happen without visible injuries
- It is normal to have mixed or unclear feelings about what happened
You are not alone
Many young people experience abuse, even though it often feels like you are the only one. You are not weak for struggling, and you are not wrong for needing support.
Subtopics
Tips
You do not have to figure this out by yourself. Small steps can already make a difference:
- Talking to someone you trust, such as a friend, mentor, teacher, or family member
- Reaching out to a counselor, psychologist, or youth support organization
- Taking time to read and recognize your own experiences at your own pace
Healing is possible. Support exists. And you deserve safety, respect, and care.