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Hi there,
It's not okay for anyone to make unkind comments about your weight or what you eat. You did really well to explain to mum that you like your body the way it is. It sounds as though mums comments could make it really hard to hold on to the confidence you have in yourself sometimes. It can be hurtful and embarrassing when someone makes unkind comments about your weight or eating in front of other people.
Its natural to want approval of a parent or carer and it sounds really difficult to feel like you dont have it when you work so hard and do so well. It doesnt feel fair when mum treats you differently to others.
When someone uses their words to make you feel bad about yourself, its emotional abuse, and its not okay. Youve told me that youve been clear with mum and told her that she's being mean towards you. Standing up for yourself can take a lot of courage. Youve asked me what to do now and it sounds as though youre ready for things to change, having done everything that you can to change things yourself. You might find that talking to a counsellor helps. They could chat to you confidentially about whats going on and what youd like to happen next.
Another option is to talk to a teacher or trusted adult at school. They have a responsibility to look after you. And if they know that youre being emotionally abused at home, they may be able to help you. I can't say what they'd do but in some cases they can get practical help or involve people or organisations who can help things to change.
You might also find our message boards helpful. This can be a great place to write about whats happening in your life and get support from other young people in similar situations.
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.