“When losing something meant I owed everything…”

I found myself in a situation where life felt very heavy and confusing. I had been taken to a party where I met older men. At first, they were kind. They gave me attention, gifts and made me feel welcomed. That didn’t last. The was I was treated quickly shifted from kindness to pressure and control. I was told that I now owed them I was made to feel like I was in debt and this debt had to be paid back. I was told to pay it back by doing sexual things or transporting drugs for them. I was constantly threatened with physical harm if I refused. These threats happened in isolated places where I felt controlled and unable to leave.  

I had a hard time trusting adults and professionals. When I tried to ask for help in the past, I felt labelled as “difficult” and “problematic “rather than listened to. This left me feeling mistrustful of the system that were meant to protect me.  

Later, I lost a package I was supposed to deliver. After that, everything became more intense. It felt like an endless cycle that I couldn’t escape.  

So, I decided to reach out. 

What happened when I spoke out

Talking to someone gave me a confidential and safe space to explain what was happening to me. I was listened without judgment and was able to talk through my concerns at my own pace. I was supported to understand my options and think about my safety, including what steps I could take next. Having clear information and ongoing support helped me feel less isolated and better able to cope with what I was facing.