I need help..

by Christy
(Fort Worth, Texas)

I don't know what to do. Someone please help. My family doesn't understand the emotional stress I've been through this year. Honestly, I think they are just making it worse. In the past year I've been through so much BS: My best friend past away, I've been failing in school, my family just.. Pushes me away. I feel like I can't talk to them about ANYTHING. They always criticize everything I do. I don't want to feel like this anymore..
-Christy

ANSWER: Christy, thanks for sharing. Sadly our families don't often come through for us. When this happens, look for support elsewhere in healthy circles such as a local church, a local counselor, or support group. (See links below).

Don't cut ties off with your family completely but recognize they aren't safe at this time to share deep hurts. This attitude will help you keep your sanity. Too often I myself have become frustrated when I expected friends or family to come through for me but they were ill-equipped and I cannot blame them for being that.

To start talking to someone safe, be sure to check out http://www.befrienders.org/ This organization is a first start towards finding a safe place to share hurts. When you are ready to speak with a certified counselor, we offer online help for you too.

There is hope! You are worth it!

Merri Ellen