There is no silver bullet, no single message, intervention or campaign that has been demonstrated to prevent teen dating violence. Success will require a multi-faceted approach. The good news is that a prevention movement is underway to end this common, costly and continuing problem.

Start Strong communities are working to demonstrate that an effective solution to reduce teen dating abuse and violence, and promote healthy relationships includes:

• Educating 11 – 14 year-olds about building healthy relationships and avoiding unhealthy or abusive relationships
• Educating and engaging those who influence young teens (including parents, caregivers, teachers, counselors, coaches, older youth, mentors, health care providers including family planning providers, and others)
• Adopting policies designed to address the problem of teen dating violence
• Communicating powerful messages through social marketing and social media that consider individual community factors

If at any time you feel that you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call 911. If you need support, there are people and resources available to help. For information and assistance anytime, contact:

National Dating Abuse Helpline
866-331-9474
866-331-8453 TTY

The National Dating Abuse Helpline offers one-on-one service from trained peer advocates and is specifically designed for teens and young adults. The advocates are available 24/7 to answer texts, phone calls and chats. The helpline also offers translation services.

National Domestic Violence Hotline
800-799-SAFE (7233)
800‐787‐3224 TTY

National Domestic Violence Hotline provides crisis intervention, safety planning, information and referrals to agencies in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The hotline operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and offers services in more than 170 languages.

National Sexual Assault Hotline
800‐656‐HOPE (4673)

The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) offers assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Callers are automatically directed to on‐duty volunteers to answer questions, provide support and refer to local resources. RAINN also operates the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline, providing live and secure help to victims.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
800‐656‐TALK (8255)

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The hotline is staffed by trained counselors and callers are routed to the crisis clinic nearest their location.