Never Become an Abuser

Having relationships with others is important for everyone. We go to school, play sports, go for walks, and meet all kinds of people every day. Some people make us happy to see them, while others don’t. We treat each person differently based on our feelings towards them.
Sometimes, people hurt each other without meaning to. Occasionally, we might think using force will help us get what we want—to make someone agree, do something for us, or to scare them.
In reality, violence only creates more violence. People will treat you the same way you treat them. There are much better ways to protect yourself and achieve your goals. By being kind, helping, respecting each other, and compromising, you can make good friends and build trust.
In difficult situations, remember that it’s better to:
• Offer a helping hand rather than raising a hand against someone.
• Talk and listen instead of shouting.
• Be friendly instead of hostile.
If you want to be strong, you should:
• Help others.
• Avoid fighting over small issues.
• Consider others’ opinions.
• Avoid hitting or belittling others.
• Celebrate others’ successes.
• Avoid mocking others’ mistakes.
• Forgive.
Remember!
Every child has the right to grow up in a friendly environment. Hurting a child is a crime. If a child is being hurt, parents, teachers, relatives, and friends can help.
• If you feel you or a friend are in danger,
• If you think you’re being abused, bullied, hit, mocked, or mistreated,
• If a friend tells you they need help dealing with abuse,
If someone’s actions make you feel bad:
• Say “No!” firmly and loudly.
• Go to a safe place where others are around.
• Tell someone you trust about what happened.
Act! Speak up!
Share what happened with people you trust—parents, teachers, older friends, sisters, or brothers.
Helpful numbers to protect you from abuse:
• 111 - Child Hotline
• 112 – Emergency Center
• 116 111 – Helpline for children