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I'm in the middle of doing my mock gcses and dealing with my parents imminent divorce. 6 weeks ago i told my school i am self harming and they haven't done anything, but my maths teacher has been really nice. only one of my friends knows and she doesn't know what she can do. today has been great up until about 2 hours ago. my mum tried to talk to me about the divorce but i refused. i don't want things to change. but trying to hide these things is making the urge get worse. i just want some advice on what i should do about everything with school, my parents and the urges.
Hi there,
Changes in your life like a divorce can feel unsettling, especially when there’s already a lot going on with school. Trying to keep everything inside can make things even more difficult, so finding ways to let some of it out safely might help.
Self-harm is something many young people talk to Childline about, and it can sometimes feel like you don’t know what else to do. When emotions build up or the urges get stronger, finding other ways to release those feelings can help. There are lots of self-harm alternatives that people find useful and the message boards can be a place to share ideas safely with other young people.
Getting support from school can sometimes take time. If it feels like nothing has changed since speaking up, it might help to check in with a teacher or staff member again. Schools do have a responsibility to help, and it is okay to ask for that support more than once.
Talking about changes in family life might not always feel possible. There’s no right or wrong way to handle these conversations. Some people find it easier to write things down or to set small boundaries about when and how they talk. Asking questions and being told what will happen with a divorce can help things feel less scary and overwhelming too. Taking things at your own pace can help make talking feel more manageable.
It's important to remember that there is support out there for you. You’re not alone in this and reaching out can help make things feel a little easier.
Take care,
Sam
You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.
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