Trusted adults · Ages 8–12
Who can you talk to?
Perhaps you have a question about your body, are feeling sad or want to tell someone about something that happened. A trusted adult is someone who listens, takes you seriously and tries to help. It might be someone at home, in your family, at school or at the doctor's. You can start with one sentence, write it down or show a message. If the first person does not help, you can tell someone else. It is the adults' responsibility to help you.
Perhaps you have a question about your body, are feeling sad or want to tell someone about something that happened. A trusted adult is someone who listens, takes you seriously and tries to help. It might be someone at home, in your family, at school or at the doctor's. You can start with one sentence, write it down or show a message. If the first person does not help, you can tell someone else. It is the adults' responsibility to help you.
01
At home and in the family
It might be your mum, dad or another adult who looks after you, a grandparent, aunt, uncle, older sister or older brother.
02
At school
You can talk to a teacher, pastoral support teacher, school counsellor or school nurse.
03
Healthcare professionals
School nurses and doctors can help with questions about your body, health, feelings and things that have happened.
04
What happens when you tell someone?
An adult may begin by listening and asking a few questions to understand. You can ask to talk somewhere quiet and explain if you are afraid of what might happen afterwards. You do not need to have a complete plan for what sort of help you need. You can ask, 'What do we do now?' and 'When can I speak with you again?' Sometimes the adult needs to get help from other people to keep the situation safe. They should then explain what is happening in a way that suits your age. A trusted adult can help you work out the next step.
05
You can show something instead of saying everything
You can write a message, draw a picture, point to this page or begin with just one word. Perhaps you need to practise with someone first. It is completely okay to start with, 'I have something important to tell you, but I don't know how.' If you are not understood, you can try again or tell another adult. A teacher, school nurse or another caregiver can be a place to start. You deserve help even if you go quiet, cry or find it difficult to explain.
06
If the first person does not help
Sometimes the first adult does not understand how important something is. Then you can try telling another adult.
07
You can also call people who help children
The Norwegian child helpline's number is 116 111. You can call free of charge if you are frightened, having a difficult time or worried about someone else. The adults who answer can listen and help you with the next steps.
Want to talk about it?
You can ask someone you trust about anything you have noticed or are worried about. A school nurse or doctor can also help if symptoms affect everyday life.
Help me explainSources and further information
Personal health concerns require assessment by a healthcare professional. Some source documents are in Norwegian.