Bringing Up Issues With Parents

[Ashes2493]

So in the past I was battling with suicide and depression and I would really like to talk about it with my parents, but I don't know how.

My Mom really has problems with believing that she is a horrible mom and such. (I just got out of a discussion about it with her) She really likes to blame herself for everything and she has no problem talking about what bothers her. My Dad works a lot and is hardly home and he tends to drink a lot.

I never really talk about my issues and I am very non-confrontational and I really do believe that if I brought it up I would instantly just back up into my cocoon and refuse to say anything more.

I really think it would be a weight off my chest if I could just tell them about it, but I know that if they just ask what's up, I would say nothing. That's just the way I am.

I'm sorry if it's confusing or rambling, but I would feel better if I could tell them. Any suggestions for a really shy girl who wants to vent.

[Chris.]

Hey Ashley, No worries! I would put all your thoughts and emotions and feelings and words onto paper. Make sure you put everything down and so its able to be clearly read and makes the point come out (the point you are trying to make which is telling your parents about how you have felt). Once you have done that, fold it up and put it in your pocket, then go talk to your mom and dad (I would maybe just talk to your mom as she seems to be more of the emotional one and I think she will understand more if your dad wasn't there; 1 personality is better to deal with than two).

Anyway, tell your mom everything you feel necessary - and make it clear it has nothing to do with what goes on at home or how you were raised but you just have gone through a hard time (and go into more detail). If you find yourself freezing, pull out that letter and read it - or if you still cant give it to her to read. This way there everything is known one way or another (either by you saying it or by her reading it). I have done it in the past - and I recommend the strategy.

Let me know how it goes.



Best wishes,
Chris

[Ashes2493]

I was thinking about doing the exact thing you said. I'll probably feel more comfortable just giving it to her and having her read it by herself. Put it in her work lunchbox or her purse or something (I would rather not have her read it in front of me. )

[Chris.]

Thats fine! Either way all is going to be known and the point will be made clear! Let me know how it goes!



Best wishes,
Chris