Luke's Light
Guiding Young People Toward Safety
Before I Tell Someone
Questions you might be afraid to ask
You can have questions before asking for help. You do not need perfect words or proof to begin.
1. What if I'm not sure it counts as abuse?
You can talk about something that scares, hurts, or worries you without knowing what to call it. A qualified adult or support counselor can help you understand your options.
2. What if I don't have proof?
You can ask for help without pictures, messages, or every detail. You do not have to investigate or put yourself at risk to gather evidence.
3. Will someone tell my parent?
That depends on whom you talk to and what is happening. Some professionals must share certain safety concerns. You can ask what they may need to share and with whom. Tell them if contacting a parent could put you at risk.
4. What if telling makes things worse?
That worry matters. Tell the professional you are afraid of what could happen if someone finds out. Ask them to talk through that concern and possible next steps with you.
5. What if I don't know what to say?
You can start with: "Something at home makes me feel scared. Can you help me?" You can say it aloud or show someone these words.
6. What if I already told someone and nothing changed?
Your concern still matters. You can ask a different qualified adult or support counselor for help. Try: "I asked for help before, but I still feel unsafe."
A sentence you can use
“I need help with something that makes me feel unsafe. Before I explain, can you tell me what you might need to share and with whom?”
You can ask this question first, but some safety concerns may still need to be shared.
Find your next step
- Visit lukeslight.org/help-now for outside support options.
- Read more: lukeslight.org/before-i-tell
- In immediate danger in the United States, call 911 when it is safe to do so.
Before you print or save
Paper copies and saved files can be found by other people. Only keep a copy if it feels safe for you.
Scan or visit
lukeslight.org/before-i-tell
Luke's Light provides educational information, not emergency response or counseling. Using this resource does not contact help or file a report. Outside services have their own privacy and reporting rules.
Draft educational resource. Independent professional review pending.