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If your thinking fo running away, ask yourself the following questions:
- Do I have basic human needs; food, shelter, and clothing?
- Why do I want to runaway?
- What will happen if I stay?
- What is wrong with my current situation that I think running away will help?
- What else could I do?
- Who can I talk with about my problems?
Options other than running away:
- Moving in with another family member: a brother, sister, uncle, aunt, or grandparents.
- Moving in with a friend's family, friends, teachers, neighbors, or other acquaintances.
- Emancipation: the legal term for granting youths the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of adults.
- Community counseling centers such as the Sunrise House for help and referrals.
- Foster Care and Group Homes
Dangers of running away:
- Possible Death
- Rape
- Prostitution
- Abuse (sexual/physical)
- Drugs
- Kidnapping
- Malnutrition
- Disease
- Hunger
- Health Problems
- Jail
- Gangs
Tips For Parents:
Preventing Problems:
- Be a role model
- Make sure that your home is a safe, secure, and positive environment
- Maintain a positive mental attitude about your ability to be a parent
- Delegate responsibility
- Open communication
- Discipline with love
- Be clear on consequences for unacceptable behavior
- Spend more time with your children
- Take their concerns seriously
- When appropriate, seek counseling
Warning Signs:
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Personality changes
- Withdrawal from family/friends
- School problems
- Isolation
- Hostility
- Disciplinary problems
Help: You are not alone, there is help available.
SUNRISE HOUSE can help, counselors available 24hrs a day,
(831)758-3302
Have any questions, e-mail us!
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