Being a victim of dating violence is not your fault. Nothing you say, wear, or do gives anyone the right to hurt you.
If you think you are in an abusive relationship, get help immediately. Don't keep your concerns to yourself. Talk to someone you trust like a parent, teacher, school principal, counselor, or nurse.

Think about ways you can be safer. This means thinking about what to do, where to go for help and who to call ahead of time.

• Where can you go for help?

• Who can you call?

• Who will help you?

• How will you escape a violent situation?

Here are other precautions you can take:

• Let friends or family know when you are afraid or need help.

• When you go out, say where you are going and when you'll be back.

• In an emergency, call 911 or your local police department.

• Memorize important phone numbers, such as the people to contact or places to go in an emergency.

• Keep spare change, calling cards, or a cell phone handy for immediate access to communication.

• Go out in a group or with other couples.

• Have money available for transportation if you need to take a taxi, bus, or subway to escape.

If you know someone who might be in an abusive relationship, you can help.

• Believe them.

• Tell the person that you are worried.

• Be a good listener.

• Offer your friendship and support.

• Ask how you can help.

• Tell a trusted adult who can help.

• Encourage your friend to seek help.

• Educate yourself about dating violence and healthy relationships.

• Avoid any confrontations with the abuser. This could be dangerous for you and your friend.

• Violence is not a normal part of any relationship.

• Abuse is not your fault.

• Reach out for help. It is available.

Developing a safety plan is an important step to leaving a relationship unharmed. While you may not have control over your partner's actions, you do have a choice about how to respond to him/her and how best to get to safety. We understand that you may be afraid, but remember you are not alone. The Tina Project Collaborative Partners can help you develop a safety plan. Find the partner nearest you on our collaborating organizations page or call the National Teen Dating Violence Hotline at 1.866.331.9474 or text “loveis” to 77054.

Download a Teen Safety Planning Guide

Download a College Safety Planning Guide