When a young person has been betrayed by an abusive adult, it creates issues around trust. In addition, if they have tried to talk to other adults and been disbelieved, dismissed, or promised help that they never received, it can add to that mistrust. Some young people who have experience a traumatic event such as abuse or bullying, may refuse to talk to a Youth MHFAider. Others might seek attachments and affection from every adult they meet, resulting in inappropriate intimacy, creating boundary issues for the Youth MHFAider. When supporting a young person who is showing signs of abuse: – Ask if anyone does or say things that frightens or blames them or puts them down. – Be prepared for the young person to initially deny there is anything wrong with their relationship or any adults around them. – Don’t encourage a young person to share their experience – it may cause them to relive their trauma. – If they are ready and do want to talk, don’t interrupt to share your own feelings, experiences, or opinions. – Stay focused on the emotional distress they are feeling. – Have their calls, texts, or emails monitored by their partner – Play up to a rigid gender role at the request of their partner – Be worried there is no one to ask for help – Want to be with anyone over no one – Have no self-belief in how they look, dress, or act – Give up their own opinions (290) Crisis Youth MHFA Revisit the Youth MHFA action plan in full.
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