Im really worried about my friend, he has a hard time at home and it's really affecting him. His dad hits him and his older brother and sister bully him. His mum and dad always argue and when his dad is angry he takes it out on him. He is really self concious and finds it really hard to smile. Im really worried about him! His dad hit him yesterday and he is now complaining about pains in his neck and head. He doesnt want to talk to anybody about it because he doesnt want anything bad to happen to his dad. He also thinks his family would never forgive him if anything happened. What should i do?
Sam
Hi there,
Its good to hear from you, Im really glad youve got in touch as it sounds like youre really worried for your friend.
I can hear how hard things are for your friend at home and its understandable that it would be affecting him. It sounds like when his dad is angry your friend seems to get this anger taken out on him so I am concerned about how things are for your friend. I want you to know that being hit is a type of physical abuse, especially if there are injuries like the ones you describe. It's not okay for anyone to be treated like this way and could even be against the law.
It sounds like youre really trying hard to support him and see that he is ok and thats great. It also sounds as if it took a lot for him to trust you. I want you to know that if your friend did want to talk to someone he can speak to a ChildLine counsellor which would be confidential. You can also talk to ChildLine about how this is affecting you, if you like.
Talking can sometimes help people and ChildLine really wants to support anyone who gets in touch. I know that some people dont feel ready to talk to a counsellor and thats ok. Lots of people talk on the ChildLine message boards first and get some advice on there.
If you or your friend would like to talk to a ChildLine counsellor you can call us for free on 0800 1111 or log on for a 1-2-1 chat. Well done for being such a caring friend.
Take care,
Sam
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