Contacting a Trusted Resource

Not everyone is comfortable directly engaging with someone they are concerned about. That is okay. Sometimes, we may want to talk to someone about our concerns for advice on how to proceed or we may be uncertain whether the behaviors noted merit a specific level of concern. Maybe you would like a second opinion or some suggestions about what to do.  

One option may be to reach out to a trusted resource. Reaching out to other trusted adults may feel like you are gossiping or violating someone’s privacy. However, in caring, safe, respectful, and healthy communities, sharing concerns with other trusted adults is okay if the purpose is to assist the person you are concerned about.  

A trusted resource may include medical professionals, mental or behavioral health professionals, faith leaders, teachers, or other individuals with specialized training. There are a number of such resources in your community. Information on who those individuals are can be found HERE.  [ADD LINK]

Before contacting the trusted resource, be prepared to talk about the following: 

• What you saw, heard, or learned about and who is involved. 
• When and where you saw, heard, or learned about the information. 
• Description of the concerning behavior and why you feel concerned. 
• Other questions or issues you would like to discuss in relation to the identified concern