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    Teen FAQ

    For over 10 years, teens have been asking us questions on every topic imaginable. While we are no longer taking new questions, we have a wealth of information we would like to share with teenagers.

    Questions about suicide? Call the NATIONAL SUICIDE HOTLINE 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433).


    Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Suicide > Treatment by brother bothers me!
    Posted on: 03/26/2008

    Question

    I have 17 year old brother and he treats me like garbage, calls me names, messes up my things, steals things from me, sprays his cologne on my things. He's very very mean and my parents dont do anything about it. He can call me a name and i'll say somthing like "why am I a slut?" and my parents yell at me and tell me to shut up yet my brother keeps doing it. It hurts me so bad that i just want to get away. i cant go anywhere and i feel like the only way to get away is to die.

    Answer

    Hi, If you're serious that the only way you feel you can get away is to die, get help--those words have meaning and carry feeling, and can make you feel even more that way if you just continue saying it to yourself and feeling it. Sit down with your parents, without complaining; sit down and tell them you want them to know about you and what you need. Write out ahead of time two columns, what you feel, and what you need. Keep the needs column matter-of-fact. Then ask if you can all sit down and set up agreements and boundaries for the four of you (the whole family) to live by while you continue to live together; it's what roommates often have to do. Then state it, and finish with the fact that you will put in extra effort to also hear and respect the others' needs too; it's often surprising to hear their perceptions and lists of needs. If you're really feeling like the word die, get help with your feelings; tell them you want to see a professional for yourself if not for your family.


    Answered By:
    Susan McKenzie , LCSW


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