posted in Family
I don't think my mom likes me very much anymore. I didn't do anything wrong today, but as soon as I got home from my summer program today she asked me to take a break in my room. It's not fair because my brother didn't have to. I asked her why and she said because she wants me to try doing a quiet activity for a while to calm down. Every day she does that at least once. Sometimes for a reason, but sometimes for no reason at all. I was already calm today and I was just looking for batteries and she thinks I’m a maniac or something. I think she was just trying to get me away from her again. I asked her if she doesn't want me around and she said that's not true and she doesn't want me to think that. I think she's lying to me. She doesn't have to worry about me talking too much because I’m not even speaking to her anymore.
Teen, 13 years old
It has to be frustrating to have your mother ask you to go to your room when you don't understand why. Maybe your mom wants you to take a break and go to your room as a way to "practice" learning to cope with whatever situation is going on at the moment. Coping skills can really help to manage stress and anxiety. We have a few links we would like you to check out so you can have them ready to go as needed, then when you are upset, they are ready to go.
http://www.yourlifeyourvoice.org/v2/Pages/tip-How-to-Use-Coping-Skills.aspx
http://www.yourlifeyourvoice.org/v2/Pages/tip-99-coping-skills.aspx
Try to make your room your own fun and relaxing place so it is an enjoyable place for you to go to. Decorate it in fun colors (get your mom's permission, of course), move things around to give your room a different look. Put your favorite things in a special place so you can find them when you are upset.
Most importantly, talk to your mom about your feelings at a time when every one is calm and not on their way somewhere else. Or try to write a letter to her so that she knows how you are feeling. We have some tips on how to do this:
http://www.yourlifeyourvoice.org/v2/Pages/tip-how-to-talk-to-parents.aspx
http://www.yourlifeyourvoice.org/v2/Pages/tip-letter-to-your-parents.aspx
We want you to know that we are here for you. Please take care and let us know how you are doing.
Nancy, counselor
Hotline Counselor
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