Some ideas that might help:

• If you are in danger you can call the police. Keep the phone number of your local police handy or memorise it in case you need it. (In Australia phone 000 in an emergency for police or ambulance)

• If you have been injured or hurt you can go to a doctor or hospital and get medical help. Check out the Services section for contact numbers of supportive services for young people.

• Talking to someone about it can help:

You might think that no-one will believe you when you tell them what's been happening to you. But when you do find someone who believes you, it can make such a difference to how you feel. Talking about it can make you feel less alone, and the person you talk to could help you to work out what you want to do. You might want to:

Talk to a friend Talk to an adult you can trust (this could be an older sister or brother, or your parents, a friend's parent, a relative or a school counsellor). They might have some ideas to help you to feel safer. They might be able to help protect you from your boyfriend/girlfriend, or they might be able to talk to them or warn them about the consequences of their behaviour. They could also phone the services listed for advice. You could talk to someone from a counselling service, either in person or over the phone. See services.

If the first person you speak to makes you feel bad or doesn't take it seriously, then try to find someone else. You deserve to be supported for this.

More ideas that might help you to feel stronger:

Focus on things that you enjoy or feel good at, to build your confidence Write your feelings down, keep a journal, or write your boyfriend/girlfriend a letter that you don't have to send Listen to music that has lyrics in it that make you feel stronger Pay attention to and trust your feelings and gut instincts Believe that you don't deserve to be treated this way Believe it's not your fault that your boyfriend/girlfriend behaves this way Be proud of the way you've been able to be strong and of the ways you have found to keep going when you've felt so much confusion, fear and hurt.

How can I help a friend or a family member