I needed to show that I was stronger.

"I thought abuse was normal but I grew to realise that it wasn't ok."

At the age of 15 my family was falling apart. I tried sharing it with my two closest friends and instead of being there for me they decided to tell the rest of the school. I shut down, I didn't go to school unless I was forced to. I started self harming and stealing alcohol from my mother's cupboard. At the age of 16, I started smoking pot. Then I met someone who was a little older and they made me realise that I didn't need pot to be happy.

I didn't need to see my past as a negative. I needed to heal and move on.

They showed me they cared about what I had to say. I think that is why Kids Helpline is so important, it shows that someone cares. If I had a chance earlier to talk to someone I would have, because all you need is for someone to listen. If writing this helps other kids, that's great.