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Hi there,
Im really glad that you could share this with me. You sound like youre having a difficult time and Im concerned to hear that youre not feeling cared about by your mum. Everyone deserves to know that they are loved.
You asked whether this was normal for children. Everybodys idea of whats normal is different and some families dont give birthday presents or celebrate birthdays because of their beliefs. From what youve told me, your mum gives a birthday present to your sisters but not you. That must hurt.
Parents have a responsibility to look after their children and make sure that they feel safe and loved. To treat one child differently to another in this way is emotional abuse. I can tell that not getting a birthday present leaves you confused and upset and it would be a good idea to talk to an adult you trust about whats been happening. Youve done well to write to me about what youre going through.
You sound as though youre trying to cope with a lot at the moment and it could help to talk to one of our counsellors about how youre feeling. You deserve support with this difficult situation and you dont have to go through it on your own.
Take care,
Sam
You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.
You can ask me about anything you want, there's nothing too big or small. I read every single letter but I can only answer a few each week. My replies are published here on my page.