I Don't Get Along With My Parents And I Can't Take It Any More!

by Laura
(Long Island)

Hi, my name is Laura and I'm sixteen years old. I get angry so easily, even things as simple as me losing a bracelet or misplacing my hair brush sends me into a cursing fit. And with the summer, my anger always gets worse because I'm not at school all day and I see my mom more often because she takes off work a few days a week.

I feel like the more I spend time with my family in general, the more angry I get. My Dad and I always argue, about everything in general. And the same thing is true about my Mom most days.


And recently, my sister in grad school just told my Mom something I made her promise not to tell my parents because I wasn't sure how to tell them. She just took the liberty of thinking it was her place to tell them. I got so mad at her for that! But I don't want to get mad at her because I feel like she's the only one left in my immediate family I can trust.

My extended family is just a pain in the neck and I can't stand to be at family parties for anything on my Mom's side anymore. My Dad's side leaves me alone and doesn't get in the way because they believe that my parents should handle anything that I do wrong.

My Mom's family however loves to look at my Facebook all the time for anything that looks wrong, even if it's a picture of me and a group of friends and what we're doing in the picture is 'not right' to them! (I don't curse or make inappropriate gestures on Facebook, ever! They just think I'm always wrong.)

I'm hoping you can help me because I feel like I'm losing my mind. I can't take one more day of this, and I just need something I can do to stop myself before I explode. I just want a life where I don't argue every day. Please help!




Response from Dr. DeFoore

Hello Laura, and thanks for telling your story here. Your situation sounds really tough. It's very hard to live in a home where you don't get along with anyone.

I think it will really help you to do the three journaling processes you will find on this page. First, you'll write about any painful or difficult experiences from your past. Even while you're doing this (or if you don't want to do the trauma writing), start your anger journal, which will give you a safe, healthy way to get your anger out.

Then, be sure and do the positive journaling exercises. This will help you tremendously, if you do it.

You are bright, Laura. I can tell from your writing. Use your good mind to do this work, and you will feel better.

My very best to you,

Dr. DeFoore

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