800-448-3000Need Help Talking To My Parents
Question
I really need help with trying to talk to my parents. I've done some terrible things before as bad as it sounds I have stolen from people before. I honestly don't know why I did such a thing or what was going through my head at the time but my parents have caught me and of course I've tried lying to get out of it. although I've done those terrible things I really want to get everything off my chest and tell them everything, and try to gain their trust back because I know that for sure they hate me for what I did. I really don't know why I did the things I did and I don't know how I feel right now, I want to leave my house sometimes, I want to quit playing soccer even though its what I really love, and I don't want to socialize with anyone from my family because I constantly feel like everyone around me hates me for what I've done. if there's any advice you could give me it would really help, thank you.
Counselor response
It’s great that you want to come clean with your parents. Being honest, especially when we’ve done something wrong, can be really scared and hard to do. But rebuilding that trust between you and your parents is really important. Your parents might even be able to help you figure out what’s going on and why you are feeling and doing the things you are.
So, how do you go about talking to your parents? One of the easiest ways might be simply writing down what you want to tell them. Writing things down in a letter is often easier than having to talk face to face, and it allows you the space to make sure you are saying exactly what you want to say in the way you want to say it. A letter also allows your parents to digest what you are telling them before responding. There is a sample letter on our website that you might find helpful to check out: Letter to Your Parents. There are also some other tips on there about talking to parents – things like the best time and place to talk face to face and how to approach your parents about important issues. You can find those here: How to Talk to Parents.
Most importantly, just be honest with your parents. Let them know what you’re struggling with and what kind of help you want and need. You can even send them the text of your email below. Most likely, they will be grateful for your honesty and want to help.
Hope things go well!
Jen, Crisis Counselor