When Home Isn't Safe: Understanding Adolescents in Crisis

Adolescents in Crisis: Sheela's Story

Sheela pulls her sleeves down to hide the bruises on her arms. She's 16 and walks into her classroom trying to look normal.

Last night, her mom got angry about a bad math grade. The yelling turned into throwing things. Her mom grabbed her arms so hard that it left marks.

"You're worthless," her mother screamed. "You'll never be anything."

These words keep playing in Sheela's head. Her friends notice she's quieter now. She jumps when teachers speak loudly. She always has excuses for why she can't hang out after school. At night, Sheela lies awake listening for footsteps, wondering if tonight will be peaceful or scary.

Sheela is one of many adolescents in crisis who face emotional and physical abuse at home. Sheela's story happens to many teens. You are not alone.

Teen Abuse at Home: The Real Numbers

In India:

Around the World:

• 3 out of 4 children face violent punishment at home

• Teens are especially at risk as they grow more independent

How Abuse Hurts You

Your Body: Hard to sleep, always feeling stressed and scared

Your Feelings: Hurts your confidence, makes you blame yourself

Your Life: Trouble focusing on school, difficulty trusting people

Crisis Intervention: Ways to Stay Safe

Right Now:

• Find the safest rooms in your house

• Know how to get out quickly if needed

• Keep important phone numbers memorized

• Tell trusted adults what's happening

Emotional Support for Teen Abuse Victims

When You Feel Scared, Try This: 

Look around and name

• 5 things you see

• 4 things you can touch

• 3 things you hear

• 2 things you smell

• 1 thing you taste

Tell Yourself:

• "This is not my fault"

• "I deserve kindness"

• "I am strong"

Find Good Ways to Feel Better:

• Write in a journal

• Draw or listen to music

• Exercise or walk

• Talk to people who care

 Building Resilience in Adolescentsnts

• Focus on school - education is your path to independence

• Learn life skills: cooking, budgeting, job applications

• Stay close to supportive friends and adults

• Be patient with yourself - healing takes time

Crisis Support: Getting Help Resources

Type of Help	Who to Contact	How to Reach Them	When to Use
Emergency	Childline India	📞 1098 (Free, 24/7)	Immediate danger or crisis
	Police	📞 100	Physical violence happening now
	Police Station	Visit nearest location	Safe place to go immediately
At School	School Counselor	Talk in person during school hours	Ongoing support and guidance
	Trusted Teacher	Approach after class or during breaks	When you need an adult to listen
	Principal/Headmaster	Office visit or appointment	Serious situations needing authority
	School Nurse	Visit health room	Medical attention or safe space
Other Help	Government Hospital	Visit emergency room or outpatient	Medical care for injuries
	Mental Health Professional	Through hospital or clinic referral	Emotional support and therapy
	Child Welfare Committee	Contact district office	Legal protection and services
NGOs	Save the Children	Local office or website	Long-term support programs
	CRY (Child Rights & You)	Local office or website	Child rights advocacy and help
Online Resources for Teen Crisis Support	Childline India Website	www.childlineindia.org	Information and online chat
	National Child Rights Portal	ncpcr.gov.in	Government resources and reporting

Quick Reference Card

EMERGENCY	NON-EMERGENCY
📞 1098 - Childline India	🏫 School counselor
📞 100 - Police	🏥 Local hospital
🏢 Nearest police station	💻 www.childlineindia.org

How to Ask for Help

• Emergency numbers work from any phone, even without a balance

• You can call anonymously

• Help is available 24/7

• It's free and confidential

• Write down incidents with dates

• Remember important phone numbers

• Know your rights

Your Future is Bright!!

This is not your fault. You deserve to be safe and loved.

Many teens who experience abuse grow up to have happy, healthy lives. The strength you're building now can help you create the life you want.