Pat's Answer
To Pat / 20 January 2020
Topic: Big argument with parents
Your Question
Hi Pat,
My mum and dad and I got into a big argument last night it was over something small but in the matter of seconds it was a screaming match. My dad barged into my room yelled at me inches close to my face. I started shouting for him to leave my room. However he didnt. My mum then comes in and tells me to shop shouting but all I wanted for for them to leave. My mum then put her hand over my mouth. I keep shouting for them to leave. I then ran for the door but my mum grabbed my arm and dug her nails into me. I pushed her off of me and ran down stairs. This isnt the first time my mum has over physical violence on me and my dad has abused me in the past. I just really am struggling living ay home. And I really don‘t know what to do about it. I dont want to talk to my friends about it because them might think its weird. I just feel really alone.
From Pat / 14 February 2020
Answer
Welcome to Ask Pat,
From what you have told us, it would be understandable that you feel alone and you are very brave to share this with us. It sounds like yours and your parent’s argument became out of control and this is impacting on your ability to live at home as you say you feel you are struggling. You have the right to be safe in your home. You also have the right to be protected from harm and you would have the right to get that support from others if your parents are the cause of this harm.
While we understand that you do not want to talk to your friends. You do have the right to tell someone and to be listened to, and to get support for what you are going through from a trusted adult. Who might that person be in your life? For some it may be a family member, others a teacher or sports leader. If you don’t feel like there is a trusted adult in your life that you can talk to just now, there is always the option of contacting Childline.
Remember, Childline is always here to listen to you and to support you. You can contact Childline by calling 1800 66 66 66 (24 hrs), chatting online at Childline.ie, or texting to 50101.
Thank you for sharing with us what is going on for you.
Take care,
Pat