Alex's Answer
I can’t stop saying sorry for little things and it’s taken over my life
Your Question
I can’t stop saying sorry it’s taken over my life I try so hard every day, but people hate me for it my dad Is constantly giving out and everybody thinks I’m doing it deliberately or not trying to stop I try so hard every day, but I can’t stop saying it for little things
Answer
Hi there and welcome to Ask Alex.
Thank you so much for getting in contact with the Ask Alex service. Thank you also for trusting us with your thoughts. We know it can be a difficult thing to do, but we also know how great it is for young people to share their thoughts and their emotions. Talking about and sharing what is going on for you is a big step forward.
It sounds like there is a lot going on for you at the moment. We are deeply sorry to hear that you feel that people hate you, it must be really tough. In general, being able to apologise is definitely a good thing as it shows awareness of how your actions may impact others and a willingness to take accountability. However, it sounds like those around you feel like you have gotten into the habit of saying sorry when it is unnecessary. Could this be the case, do you think? If so, how do you feel about saying sorry a lot? Is it something you need and/or want to change? Why do you feel like it is taking over your life? Have a think about these questions and you can decide if this is a problem for you. Remember, pretending to be someone that you’re not is hard work, and it is not something that you or anybody else should have to do.
It can be useful to talk to others about this. Would you have a trusted adult you could discuss it with? We know you said that your dad is constantly giving out, but would you feel comfortable going to him for advice and support with this? You could go to another family member or even someone outside of the family like a teacher, neighbour or sports coach. The adults in your life have a responsibility to support you, listen to you and offer advice.
Remember, the Childline team are always available to talk. You can phone Childline on 1800 66 66 66 to talk about what is going on for you if you don’t feel ready to talk to someone in your life quite yet. We are here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our text service, which can be reached on 50101 and Web Chat service through www.childline.ie, are also available daily. While we will not tell you what to do, we are here to listen to and support you, and to help you to explore the options that are available to you in your life. We are here to help you in a way that suits you.
Remember you are not alone and Childline are on hand to listen.
Take care,
Alex