Everyone deserves to be in a healthy relationship, and so do you. If you choose to be in a romantic relationship, be sure to discuss boundaries and expectations before you start and throughout your relationship. Think about what it takes for you to be a responsible partner. Remember the three guidelines to make sure that you’re acting appropriately:

 

 

1. Talk to your parents/guardians

 

2. "No" means "no"

 

3. Be honest

 

 

Romantic relationships can be very rewarding when they include developing life-long partnerships. However, these relationships need to be healthy for both partners to feel safe and happy.

 

 

Admitting that you are in an abusive relationship can be challenging. You may not want to talk about it and instead deny that the relationship is unhealthy. You also may feel scared that your partner will get into trouble. Unfortunately, ignoring the problem will only make it worse. If you feel that you are in danger, you should tell a parent, teacher, counselor, or other trusted adult to get help immediately. They will do so without making you feel bad about asking for help. Your safety is the highest priority.

 

 

If you or anyone you know has experience with these or other difficult situations, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Talking to a parent, teacher, counselor, family member, or other trusted adult can help you to resolve the situation before things become too difficult to control.

 

 

Before you go to the next page, make sure that you’re ready for your assessment.