Feeling unsafe at my home

I live with my mom and her family after my parents got divorced. I feel unsafe at this house. I cannot express my anger clearly without a fight breaking out at home and my family members slapping themselves. I also feel like I’m being sexually abused but I am not. I feel very unsafe physically and emotionally. I have had suicidal thoughts living with this family but now I’m not letting it affect me but a part of me still suffers because of this house.

Dear @user724718,

I’m really sorry you’re going through this. It sounds frightening and exhausting to live in a place where you don’t feel physically or emotionally safe, where expressing anger leads to escalation, and where your body is holding distress that feels like abuse even when you can’t clearly name it. That kind of environment can make anyone feel trapped and on edge, and it makes sense that part of you is still suffering even as you try to protect yourself and keep going. I’m really glad you shared this. What you’re describing matters, and you deserve safety and care.

Can I ask what kind of support you currently have around you? It could be friends, relatives, a counsellor, or anyone you trust who knows how unsafe this feels.

If you’re in Singapore, you can reach the National Anti-Violence and Sexual Harassment Helpline (NAVH) at 1800-777-0000 for confidential support and guidance, even if you’re unsure how to label what’s happening. If the suicidal thoughts start to feel overwhelming again or you feel in immediate danger, SOS Singapore (1767) is available 24/7.

Within the community, there are Protection Specialist Centres (PSCs) that provide social and emotional support for clients experiencing all forms of violence, including domestic violence and sexual violence. The two PSCs in Singapore are TRANS SAFE Centre and Care Corner Project StART. If you require professional support, you can approach these PSCs to receive guidance on the next steps.

You don’t have to go through this alone. If you’re open to it, there are professionals on this platform who can also help you think through ways to get support or plan for moments when the house feels especially unsafe.

Resources:

Dear @user724718

Thank you for reaching out and sharing what has been happening.

It is understandable that you feel unsafe at home. From what you shared, home feels chaotic where heated arguments take place instead of respectful conversations. You also mentioned briefly about being sexually abused. These are all very concerning and @Obi_Wan_Kenobi has shared some resources that help.

Please consider speaking to your school counsellor soon. The counsellor will listen non-judgmentally and together you could work out options to keep you safe at home.

Remember that your well being and safety is most important. If you feel overwhelmed or feel the urge to harm yourself which you cannot control, please immediately call Samaritans of Singapore hotline at 1767. The hotline operates 24/7 and is manned by competent and caring counsellors who can provide the support you need.

Your life is precious and you matter. You deserve safety and support so reach out whenever needed to those in the community who can step in to help at the most appropriate time. :yellow_heart: