Your Safety Matters
If something feels unsafe, you don't have to ignore that feeling or have all the answers right now. Start by focusing on what you need in this moment.
Feeling unsafe can mean different things. You may be worried about another person, your surroundings, what might happen next, or simply have a strong feeling that something isn't right.
If you can safely leave, consider going somewhere you feel more secure. That might be with someone you trust, a public place, or another location where you can have some space from the situation.
What Feels Unsafe Right Now?
If You Need to Get Somewhere Safer
If You're Feeling Overwhelmed or Panicked
Ask youself:
Do I need to leave, move to a safer place, or contact someone I trust right now?
Try this:
Think of one place you could go and one person you could contact if you needed to leave quickly.
You don't have to make every decision right now. Just identify your next safe step.
Give yourself permission:
"I am allowed to protect my peace and my safety."
"I don't have to explain or justify leaving a situation that doesn't feel safe."
Remind yourself:
"I am allowed to leave a situation that feels unsafe."
"I only need to focus on the next safe step, not figure everything out at once."
Feeling unsafe can also happen inside your body. Your heart may race, your thoughts may spiral, or you may feel frozen, disconnected, or unable to think clearly.
Try this:
Pause and ask yourself:
"Am I in danger right now, or does my body feel like I'm in danger?"
If you are in immediate danger, focus on getting to safety or contacting help.
If you are physically safe but overwhelmed, put both feet on the floor and take one slow beath at a time while you decide what you need next.
Need more support? Explore the safety and support resources below to connect with additional help.
Remind yourself:
"I can pay attention to what my body is telling me without letting fear make every decision for me."
"I can focus on what is true and what I need rihgt now."