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| How to Help Yourself |
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Talk to other friends. See if they were in an unequal relationship and find out how they handled it. Phone the Kid’s Help Line. It’s totally confidential (you don’t have to give your name) Kids Help Line at 1-800-668-6868. If you are seeing any of the signs of abuse in this website in your relationships, then leave the situation. Maybe it will hurt at first but you will be better off in the end. Don’t give bullies any attention. This means do not engage or fight back. This is what they are looking for and most will move on if you ignore them. For girls, when out with friends, be on the buddy system. Watch out for your friends and ask them to watch out for you. Always take care of your own drinks. Get them yourself. Mix them yourself and never accept a drink from someone you don’t know. Talk to a trusted adult – parent, doctor, teacher or family friend. Keep talking until they take you seriously. No one has the right to threaten to harm you, touch you where and how you don’t want to be touched, intimidate you or try to make you feel small. Work with your own anger. Take a time-out, breathe or count to ten to talk yourself out of hostile thoughts. If you think you might be abusive, or your anger is out of control, get help. You can change your behaviour. Always be polite when chatting online or e-mailing. If someone treats you rudely, don’t respond. If you know someone doesn’t like you, stay away from that individual. Save messages from cyber bullies. You do not have to read it but it can be used as evidence. The police, ISP (internet service provider) or telephone company can use these messages to help you. Never send a message when you are angry. Wait until you have cooled down and can think calmly. Words are very powerful and it can be difficult to undo the damage once it has been done. Do not give out or share personal information online, especially with people you don’t know. Personal information includes your name, phone numbers, school name, e-mail address, pictures and your passwords. If you witness violence or abuse, call 911 and the Kids Help Line 1-800-668-6868 for support. |
