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Expert Voices - National Runaway Switchboard

What can I do to prevent my child from running away from home?

What are the signs my teen might be thinking about running away from home?

What should I do if my child runs away from home?

What should I do when my child returns home?

What are the signs my teen might be thinking about running away from home?

While no one can say for certain which teens will run and which teens won't, here are some signals for you to look for:

	Changes in behaviors or patterns mean something is wrong. Does your teen suddenly stop eating or begin to overeat, sleep all day or never sleep, spend all her time with friends or never want to leave her room? Sudden mood swings mean she may be unsettled and restless -- she's not coping well with stress.
	Rebellious behavior is often the start of trouble. Are her grades dropping, is she truant, breaking the rules at home and/or picking fights with the family? These are all symptoms that she is having problems.
	Disclosure of intentions to run away. Has she hinted that she wants to run away? Has she even threatened you with running? Sometimes family members will hear rumors through friends, school, or other parents that a child is thinking of leaving.
	Accumulations of money and possessions. Has she started to withdraw cash from a bank account? Does she have a bag or backpack of clothes in the closet? To survive, runaways need money and resources. She may be preparing for a run and waiting to make a quick escape.

It is important to confront your suspicions right away. Clearly and calmly let her know you are concerned about her, and her behavior makes you afraid she might run away from home. Invite her to talk with you or someone else about what is troubling her. Be supportive of finding positive ways of dealing with her stress. Let her know you don't want her to run away and that you are committed to helping the family work things out.

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