Sometimes things can get too much and you may start to think about running away. You might think that running away will make you feel better for a short period of time, but it won't provide the answer to your problems. The better option is to talk to someone.
Take a look at these videos to find out what happened when these young people were reported missing.
Running Away is not the Answer - video 1 on the West Yorkshire Police website
Running Away is not the Answer - video 2 on the West Yorkshire Police website
Talk to someone
Whatever your reason for wanting to running away, talking to someone you trust often helps. This could be a family member like a grandparent or auntie/uncle, or a family friend or teacher. Talking to a trusted adult about your problems can help you work out find possible solutions to what is it is that has caused you to feel the need to run away
It might feel difficult to talk to someone, but running away can make your problems worse.
While you're away you could:
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be harmed or hurt
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end up cold, wet and hungry
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find yourself sleeping rough
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find yourself in dangerous situations
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not be able to contact people you care for and love
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be offered drugs and/or alcohol
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find yourself in a strange place
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be at risk of breaking the law and arrested.
If you prefer to speak to someone anonymously, you can call one of these free and confidential helplines:
Runaway helpline
Call or text: 116 000
Email: 116000@missingpeople.org.uk
Online chat: www.runawayhelpline.org.uk (Available 2.30 – 9pm)
You can use the helpline if you’re thinking about running away or if you have already run away from home and need help and advice.
They can help you get a message back to your parents, carers or family to let them know that you’re safe, but only if you want them to. All contact is confidential, and they can’t find out where you are unless you choose to tell them.
You can text or phone them even if you have no credit left on your mobile phone.
They will talk to you in confidence to explain your options and try to get you the help you want.
ChildLine
Their advisers are trained to help with any problems that you’re having at home that are making you think about running away.
Calls to ChildLine are completely confidential and free, even if you call from a mobile phone.
Call 0800 1111
Visit www.childline.org.uk
Young people run away for all sorts of reasons. Whatever your reason for wanting to run away, remember there are adults, professionals and friends who can help you.