We really think it is great you took the time this afternoon to reach out for some support and comfort. It really sounds like you've been having a really difficult time lately with all of these different things sort of coming together at once. We can imagine how overwhelmed you must be feeling, so it was a great decision to open up. Support is always there for you and you never have to go through things like this alone.

Reaching out to us was a great step, but what else have you been doing to try and get through this situation? We know it hurts when a girl doesn't feel the same way, it makes you feel crappy when your Dad is so demanding, and hanging out with an unhealthy crowd of friends are all things which can take a toll on somebody. We know things might be feeling pretty helpless right now, but you definitely have options and resources at your disposal.

Instead of focusing on all of your problems, it really is helpful to focus your attention towards one area at a time. What is causing you the most discomfort? By focusing on a single aspect, rather than everything you are upset about, you will feel less overwhelmed and more capable of overcoming what is in front of you. Please let us know which problem is causing you to feel the worst and we can work with you to develop a plan to overcome your problems one at a time.

What have you been doing to cope with all of the feelings you've been having? We can tell that you've been feeling really down and overwhelmed. It is both helpful and healthy to do things to express how you feel. Using substances might seem like an attractive option, but they only create more problems. Alcohol and drug use are both related to depression and poor decision making, which can lead to problems socially, financially, and legally.

Instead, we always promote other coping strategies which can reduce stress, boost your mood, or help you express your feelings. Listening to music, writing in a journal, doing some light exercise, watching a funny video, or volunteering are all great things to do when you feel like this. Can you think of any healthy things to do to cope?

Your statements about overdosing and ending your life really are scary and have us worried about you. We know you are struggling right now, we believe that. Please know that you do have the ability to get through this, reach your goals, and find a positive outcome for yourself.

Reaching out to us shows a lot of strength and courage on your part, which are both such amazing qualities to have. Do you feel like you are going to be able to stay safe? Can you make a promise to yourself that you will reach out to us, family, or other adults you trust if your feelings start to overwhelm you and the urges to harm yourself become unbearable?

We are always a phone call or e-mail away when you need somebody to be there for you. Please keep in touch; let us know how things are going, what you've been doing to cope, and if you can stay safe. Also identifying the area giving you the most trouble we can start to develop a course of action to help get you through this.

Abe, Counselor