Every year, thousands of youth decide to leave their homes without warning. These departures can often be prevented if the warning signs are spotted in time. This article will help you identify these signs and respond quickly to prevent a runaway.
Why It’s Important to Recognize the Signs
Teens don’t decide to run away overnight. Often, subtle signs appear well before the runaway. As a parent, it’s crucial to pay attention to these behavioural changes, even if they seem minor, because they can reflect a deeper issue. Recognizing these signs allows you to intervene before the situation worsens.
Key Warning Signs
Sudden Change in Attitude
Teenagers naturally go through emotional changes due to puberty, but a sudden change in attitude can be a sign of distress. If your child becomes more irritable, starts rebelling more often, or adopts a hostile attitude toward you, it may indicate that they are going through a difficult time.
Example: Emma, 14, who used to be cheerful and close to her parents, suddenly becomes distant and reacts aggressively when her parents ask about her day at school.
Social Withdrawal
If a teenager starts isolating themselves from friends or stops participating in activities they used to enjoy, this could be a sign that they are considering running away. They may distance themselves from their usual relationships to mentally prepare for leaving or because they feel misunderstood.
Example: For several weeks, Liam, 15, who loved playing soccer with his friends, now refuses to see them and spends his days locked in his room.
Changes in Daily Routine
A shift in daily habits, such as sleep disturbances, changes in eating patterns, or disinterest in school, can indicate that something is wrong. These changes are often ways for the teenager to cope with complex emotions they can’t express otherwise.
Example: Noah, 16, starts skipping school and staying up late every night. His parents can’t understand why he suddenly lost all interest in his studies.
Disappearance of Personal Items
Another potentially warning sign is the disappearance of personal belongings, such as clothes or money. This may indicate that the teenager is preparing to run away by gathering a bag with items they consider necessary.
Example: Lily, 13, starts taking small amounts of money from her parents’ wallet and discreetly packing clothes into her school bag.
How to Respond to Warning Signs
Initiate an Open Conversation
If you notice some of these signs, the first step is to have a supportive conversation with your teenager. It’s essential to avoid blaming or showing anger. Ask open-ended questions to understand how they feel and show that you’re there to listen.
Tip: Instead of saying “Why are you doing this?”, try “I’ve noticed you seem worried lately. What’s been on your mind?”
Seek Professional Support
If conversations don’t seem to lead anywhere, or if you have serious concerns about your child’s emotional well-being, don’t hesitate to consult a mental health professional. A therapist or family counselor can help identify underlying causes and suggest solutions.
Tip: A therapist can provide your teenager with a neutral space where they feel comfortable expressing emotions they might not share at home.
Ensure a Safe and Trusting Environment
It’s crucial for your child to feel safe at home. Make sure your home is a place where they can seek refuge during difficult times, rather than a place where they feel judged or misunderstood.
Conclusion
The warning signs of a runaway can be subtle, but by paying attention to these changes, you can possibly intervene in time to prevent a crisis. Stay attentive to your teenager’s behaviour and engage in open conversations to understand their mindset and help them overcome their difficulties.