Family Conflict: Where to Get Help

Family relationships can be complicated, and sometimes they become so hard that home doesn't feel safe or stable anymore. Sometimes, conflict can be worked through with the right support—like therapy, mediation, or help from a trusted adult. Other times, the situation at home may be unsafe—and if that’s the case, especially if you're under 18, you may need support in leaving and getting to a safe place.

If you're unsure what’s going on at home—or what to do about it—it’s okay to need help teasing it out. Whether you’re looking for ways to repair relationships, find a safe place to stay, or just talk to someone who understands, there are people ready to help.

I’m Under 18 — What Can I Do?

If you're under 18 and things at home feel tense, unstable, or unsafe, you're not alone — and you do have options. Getting help early can make a big difference. Even if things haven’t gotten “bad,” it’s okay to reach out before they do.

Whether you're thinking about leaving home, hoping to work things out with your family, or just need someone to talk to, there are programs specifically for youth like you. They’re here to help prevent things from getting worse, and to support you in figuring out what feels safest and healthiest.

If you're under 18 you can get free, confidential support from a Basic Center Program near you. These programs offer:

• Emergency shelter
• Family counseling and mediation
• Help with school, transportation, and other basic needs
• Support finding longer-term housing or reconnecting with family (if safe)

You don’t have to wait until things are at a breaking point. A trained counselor will listen without judgment, help you understand your options, and support you in making a plan that works for you.

Basic Center Programs in Massachusetts

Dial/Self – Greenfield, MA
Phone: (413) 774‑7054
Serves: Franklin and Hampshire counties

• Offers 24/7 emergency shelter and prevention services for youth ages 12–17.
• Up to 21 days in shelter; up to 72 hours without parental permission in some cases
• Staff respond in person at local Safe Place sites and can provide transportation to the shelter.
• Focused on meeting youth where they’re at and supporting next steps

Bridge Over Troubled Waters – Metro Boston, MA
 Phone: 617‑423‑9575 or 1‑800‑RUNAWAY
 Serves: Greater Boston region

• Offers emergency shelter and prevention services for youth ages 12–17.
• Up to 21 days in shelter; up to 72 hours without parental permission in some cases
• Staff will contact Metro Cab to pick up youth 24/7 within a 30‑mile radius of Boston at no cost to the youth

CHD Safety Zone – Springfield, MA
Phone: (413) 781‑6556
Serves: Hampden County

• Offers 24/7 emergency shelter and prevention services for youth ages 12–17.
• Up to 21 days in shelter; up to 72 hours without parental permission in some cases
• Youth may be placed in host homes, including placements for young parents.
• Transportation is provided by staff directly to host homes.

LUK – Worcester County
Phone: [phone]
Serves: Worcester County

• Offers 24/7 emergency shelter and prevention services for youth ages 12–17.
• Up to 21 days in shelter; up to 72 hours without parental permission in some cases
• Individualized transportation plans developed with youth

Wayside – MetroWest / Framingham, MA
Phone: [phone] 
Serves: MetroWest region

• Offers 24/7 emergency shelter and prevention services for youth ages 12–17.
• Up to 21 days in shelter; up to 72 hours without parental permission in some cases
• 24/7 pick-up through on-call system (📞 508‑782‑4040) within MetroWest area at no cost

Need Help Now?

If you’re under 18, call 1‑800‑RUNAWAY or any of the Basic Center Programs listed above. If you're not sure which program is closest, you can contact any one of them. Staff will help you figure out next steps and may be able to help with transportation.

I’m 18–24 — Who Can Help?

Family conflict can be hard to handle on your own, especially when you're navigating it as a young adult. If you're 18 to 24, you can connect with people who understand what you're going through and are ready to help, without judgment.

You Have Options

Start with the Mass Help Line

www.MassHelpLine.com or Call or Text 833-773-2445

If you're feeling trapped, hopeless, or unsure what to do, the Mass Help Line is here for you. You can call, text, or chat 24/7 with a trained staff member who will listen and help you access the support that best fits your situation.

• Help navigating family conflict
• Individual or family conflict support from trained clinicians
• Support with mental health or safety concerns
• No judgment, just someone to talk to

Or connect with a Homeless Youth Service Provider

If you’d rather talk to someone locally, Homeless Youth Service Providers can help with more than just housing. These are multi-service programs that support young people facing a range of challenges — including helping to reduce or navigate family conflict.

• Support navigating or mitigating family conflict
• Help finding safe, stable housing
• Ongoing support with school, jobs, and life planning

These programs understand the unique challenges young adults face and will meet you where you're at—with respect and without pressure.

Remember

It's okay to ask for help—whether you're trying to work things out at home or need a safe way to leave. There are people who care and are ready to support you.

Looking for more support, programs, or info?
Visit mass.gov/YouthResources for additional resources.