I think my mum is mentally ill. I'm very scared of her I shake when she comes near me. I'm scared she will hurt me. She pretends to everyone everything is perfect. She is so two faced. I'm homeschooled but she doesn't teach me anything, when the people come round to see if we are learning properly she lies and lies I want to go to school and have all my life. It makes me very sad and I don't know what to do. Please help me.
Sam
Hi there,
Thank you very much for your letter to me. It sounds like things at home are really confusing and worrying for you right now. You have been really brave writing to me and it sounds like you need some support with what is going on at home.
You said that you think mum might be mentally ill and her behaviour is making you feel scared that she may hurt you. I just want to let you know that its not okay for anyone to hurt you. If you ever feel like you might be in danger you can call 999 and get help. If mum is mentally ill she can get help from the doctors and you can get support too.
I am concerned that you feel so scared at home. Everyone is entitled to feel safe at home. It would be a good idea to talk to a ChildLine counsellor about how youre feeling and what you could do to start to make things better for you.
Im also wondering whether there are any other trusted adults in your life that you could talk to about your concerns about your mum? You said that what mum says to people who come round isnt actually whats happening. One option might be to ask mum why she is telling lies and explain that you would like to go to school.
Every young person has a right to an education and if you feel like you arent getting taught correctly its important to let someone know so that they can help you.
If you feel stuck knowing who you could tell, it might be a good idea to give ChildLine a call on 0800 1111 or have a 1-2-1 chat or send an email . It would be a chance to talk through who might be the best person to help you get the education you need and how you could tell them.
You might want to have a look at the message boards on the ChildLine website for some support. This is a place where you can write a message and other young people can offer advice and support. You can also read other people's post who might be dealing with similar things to you.
Take care,
Sam
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