Responding to a Late Night Call
When your young adult calls in distress, prioritizing safety over getting details helps them get out of uncomfortable situations quickly.
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The situation
It is midnight and you are at home, three hours away from your daughter's campus. Your phone rings and you see her name on the screen.
- You: Hey, is everything okay?
- Your daughter: Not really. I'm at this party and I just really want to leave right now.
- You: Okay. Take a breath, I'm here.
- Your daughter: I feel stuck and I don't know who to call for a ride.
Your daughter is upset and wants to leave a party immediately, but you live too far away to pick her up yourself.
What is the best way to respond to her request for help?
- Offer immediate help getting a ride and plan a backup option together.
- Ask her to explain what happened at the party before figuring out her ride home.
See the recommended choice and why
Recommended choice
Offer immediate help getting a ride and plan a backup option together.
When your young adult calls in distress, prioritizing safety over getting details helps them get out of uncomfortable situations quickly. Offering practical support and a clear backup plan builds trust and ensures they have a reliable way home, even if you are far away.
Your next step
Save local transit hours and backup ride options so you are ready to help if your child calls.
Words you can use
“I'm glad you called. What would help you leave right now?”
Sources
Lessons draw on guidance from these organizations. They link to it and do not reproduce it.
More lessons for parents
If someone is in danger now, call 911. To talk to someone, call or text 988.