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Ask Sam

Topic Depression 

Question

To Sam 

21/03/2011 9:50pm 

Depression 

I don't know what to do anymore. My mum and dad split up when i was 3, and me and my mum and older sister moved to Northern Ireland from England. My Dad stayed in England, and we never really saw him. And 3 years ago now, he moved to Dubai with my new little sister and stepmum. I never hear from them now. I miss them so much, but my dad never replys to emails. I can't talk to anyone at home about it, it's too difficult and awkward. We fight all the time, and my mum seems really depressed. I'm starting to give up on life, and loosing faith and happiness in everything i do. I think i'm starting to get depressed, and i've had serious thoughts about self-harm lately.. i don't want to hurt myself, but i don't know if i will be able to stop the thoughts next time.

Write back soon!

Sam's answer

Sam 

31/03/2011 12:43pm 

Hi there

Thanks for your letter. It sounds like things with your family have been complicated for you and that it’s been harder since your dad moved to Dubai. It’s often hard when parents split up, but having no contact at all with some of your family has been really affecting you.

I can hear what you’re saying about finding it difficult to talk to people at home and I can understand that you might feel awkward about that. I’m wondering who you feel you could talk to? It’s really important to look after yourself and make sure that you find a way of coping with your feelings, which will be different for everyone.

It sounds like you’re looking for your own way of coping with feelings and are thinking about harming yourself. It’s important to find a way of coping that you are happy with and thinking about the consequences of what we do is part of that. What could happen if you begin to harm yourself?

Remember you don't need to go through this on your own. One way of coping is to use ChildLine as part of your support. There are lots of different ways to talk to a ChildLIne counsellor – you can chat online or email; or call us for free on 0800 1111. You can also talk to other young people on the message boards.

I’m really glad you’ve sent me this letter because everyone at ChildLine is here for you. We want you to know that looking after yourself is important and worthwhile.

I hope you contact us again soon.

Take care

Sam

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