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Hi there,
It can be worrying for us when someone close to us is going through a difficult time. And we want to help but are unsure of how to help or where to start. Its really clear how much your girlfriend has had to go through over the last couple of years and it seems like self-harming might have helped her to cope. Supporting someone you love or care for when they are going through a difficult time can be really tough. But you don't have to do it alone. Im really glad you wrote to me.
I understand that you care for your girlfriend and want to be able to help. This isnt something you have to be completely responsible for. I can hear how self-conscious she feels about talking to an adult. Maybe you can think of talking to someone you trust for support.
It can really help sharing things with someone we don't know but feel able to trust, like a ChildLine counsellor. You could be with her and talk to a counsellor while youre together, either by calling free on 0800 1111 or through 1-2-1 chat online. Or, if talking to adults feels too difficult right now, she could check out our message boards and get support from other young people.
ChildLine could also support you with how it feels to care for someone who is going through such a difficult time. You could talk to us at any time. You told me that your girlfriend has felt suicidal in the past. If youre ever worried that she might not be safe, its always OK to tell someone.
Take care,
Sam
You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.
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