Start here

  • Call Triple Zero (000) in Australia if you are in immediate danger.
  • Tell a trusted person one concrete thing that happened and what you need next.
  • If you think your device is monitored, seek advice using a safer device or in person.

Start with what you need today

Home can feel unsafe because of threats, harm, controlling behaviour or the fear that things will get worse. You may also worry about a sibling, a parent, a pet or a person you depend on for transport and money. It is possible to care about someone and still be worried about what they are doing. You do not have to name the whole situation before talking to someone. If you are in immediate danger in Australia, call Triple Zero (000).

When there is time to plan, ask yourself what help would make the next few hours more manageable. You might need someone to walk with you after class, a private place to speak with a worker, or information about somewhere safe to go. Choose one request and one person to try first. A GP, youth worker, teacher or school wellbeing staff member may be able to help you work out who else should be involved.

Use words that describe what happened

If it is hard to start, say “I’m worried about going home today. Last night someone threatened me and I don’t know who to talk to.” You can change the details to match what happened. A concrete example gives the other person something to respond to. If writing is easier, ask whether you can show them a note in private. You can ask them to stay with you while you decide what happens next.

You may want to understand who they have to tell before you speak. Try “If I tell you I’m worried about my safety, who might you need to involve?” Staff may have duties to act on certain concerns, particularly when a young person could be at risk. Ask them to explain what they can share about the process. If you are dismissed or the first person is unavailable, try another trusted person or an appropriate support service.

Check how you can safely get in touch

If you think someone can see your messages, browser history, device activity or location, take that concern seriously. Consider using a trusted person’s device or asking for help face to face. A library, school or clinic may offer a way to talk privately, depending on your circumstances. Before agreeing to receive follow-up messages, tell the worker which phone number or email they can use and whether it is safe to leave a voicemail.

Changing a shared account, removing an app or turning off location sharing could be noticed. If you are unsure how someone might react, talk through options with a specialist before making changes. 1800RESPECT has device safety information and support for people affected by domestic, family and sexual violence. Its workers can help you think about how to contact support in your circumstances.

Work through the practical details with someone

If you might need to go somewhere else, ask a trusted adult or support service to talk through the details with you. Where can you wait safely? How will you get there? Do you rely on a mobility aid, medication, an interpreter or another person to help you get around? Can a worker help you find a service that understands your age and needs? Explain anything that would make a suggested plan difficult. It is reasonable to ask for an option that you can actually use.

Decide how you will check in next. You might ask a teacher when they will be available again, or ask a service whether you can return to the same conversation if the call drops. If you are concerned about someone else at home, tell the worker about that too. You do not need to solve their situation by yourself. Support can begin with one safe conversation and a specific plan for what to do afterwards.

Frequently asked questions

What if someone at home can see my messages or location?

Consider using a safer device or speaking to a trusted person face to face. Tell the worker how they can reach you safely. If changing a setting could be noticed, ask a specialist service such as 1800RESPECT for advice first.

Who can I tell if I’m worried about going home after school?

Ask a trusted teacher or wellbeing worker for a private conversation before you leave. Say what happened and what you need today. If you are in immediate danger in Australia, call 000.

Sources & further reading

These independent resources provide further information. Their inclusion does not imply endorsement of Youth Health.