If a girl is being hurt, threatened, neglected, or emotionally abused by her parents, she should not keep everything to herself. Talking to a trustworthy person can help her feel safer and find practical support.
- Choose a safe adult: She can talk to a teacher, school counsellor, relative, neighbour, doctor, or a trusted friend's parent—someone who listens without blaming her.
- Explain what is happening: She should describe what happened, how often it happens, and whether she is currently in danger. She does not need to explain everything at once.
- Ask for specific help: For example, she can say, “I don't feel safe at home. Please help me find a safe place or someone who can protect me.”
- Don't be afraid of being blamed: Abuse is not her fault, regardless of what her parents may say.
- Tell more than one person if necessary: If the first person doesn't take her seriously, she should keep reaching out to another trusted adult.
- If speaking isn't safe: She can write a message or note to a trusted person when she has privacy.
- If she is in immediate danger in India: Call 112 for emergency assistance. If she is under 18, she can also contact Child Helpline 1098.
Most importantly, she should prioritize her immediate safety rather than trying to handle the situation alone.