800-448-3000My Mom Threatens Me
Question
I've been having problems with my mom. She's constantly verbally abusing me and threatening to kill me and my pets. She said shes going to drag me out of school when i'm 16 and put me to work because she doesn't believe that I will be able to graduate. When I'm around her rage fills in my chest. It takes everything inside me not to hurt her. She threatens to move me away from my brothers and sisters constantly and she has held a knife to my neck two times. I'm too scared to call the police and for some odd reason I don't want to because I don't want to be taken away from my family but my brothers and sisters all said they would let me live with them. I don't know what to do.
Counselor response
You expressed yourself and your situation very well. It is very brave for you to let us know what you going through especially when it involves family and how you are treated. From what you are saying we are concerned about you. It is completely understandable that you would be afraid and angry toward your mom considering what you described of your situation.
Do you think your mom would be open to getting help and support from a professional therapist? The things that you describe have us worried for your safety. We hope when you hear how concerned we are that you will reach out for help. There are a lot of options for support for you and your family. Our counselors can help you find referrals in your area.
Please consider making a safety plan. Talk this over with your siblings so they know the situation and can help to keep you safe. Part of that safety plan can be to call us. If you feel you are in danger you can always call Child Protective Services or 911. Here is a link to a worksheet that we would like you to work on:
It takes a lot of courage to open up and talk about something when you aren’t sure of the outcome. We are proud of you for being so honest about what is going on. Please continue to reach out to our hotline or seek professional support to make sure you begin to get the help you need so this situation can change. You deserve to feel safe in your home.
You are not alone, we will be here for you - 1-800-448-3000.
Take care, we hope to hear from you soon,
Anne, Counselor