My mother constantly takes my phone away for the smallest things, and gives me insane punishments. She said that until I am an adult, I am not allowed to step foot outside the house. She is making me go to online school and hits me 24/7. I’m so sick of it, I’ve considered running away several times. Sometimes, my mother threatens to leave forever. She does leave at times, but she always comes back an hour or two afterwards. I know she loves me, I just wish she could show it in a better way. And my dad doesn’t care. I cannot afford a therapist and I can’t talk to any adults. My friends would threaten to call the cops, so I can’t talk to them either. What do I do?
HELP YOURSELF:
- What you’re going through must be tough. Thank you for trusting the Teen Central community with your story. Having a voice for your own personal safety is so important. We are here for you.
- First things first, if you ever feel unsafe in your home (PHYSICALLY or EMOTIONALLY) it is crucial that you call 911 immediately. Remember- no one deserved to be harmed, especially by a loved one. If you don’t feel comfortable reaching out to law enforcement, you can always text HELLO to 741741. This is a 24/7 textline that supports anyone in crisis.
- I know that you stated you can’t talk to any adults, but I challenge you to think of someone who would be there to listen. If you are in online school, maybe reach out (via email) to one of your teachers or the guidance counselor there. It is important that you talk to an adult as your next step. Remember it is never ok for someone to make you feel unsafe. Speak up! Also know that your friends have your best interest at heart. They just want to protect you, because they care about you.
CONSIDER THIS:
- Therapy is a great next step. There may be places where you can get help and support that won’t cost you anything. One place to start would be your online school. See what resources they can offer you (even if its virtual). Keeping all of these emotions in may not be helpful in the long run.
- I’m sure it is stressful feeling trapped at home. That’s why it’s even more important to keep your mind at ease. Teen Central recommends journaling as a way to express your emotions. Check out the “What’s New” tab and click on “Journaling as a Coping Skill”. This gives you about 10 journal prompts. Start with that.
- If you feel the journaling is helping, maybe you can even write down some things you would want to say to your mom or dad. Getting those heavy emotions on paper can be se freeing. Eventually, this will prepare you for an actual conversation with them.
- How does it make you feel when they are so strict?
- Why do you feel they don’t care about you?
- If you could change 3 things about your relationship what would they be?
