Alex's Answer

I hate Christmas

Your Question

I hate Xmas last Xmas day my mam confessed to my dad that she is lesbian and left so this year it will be just me and dad and I’m dreading it part of me is suicidel thinking of it I’m lost 

Answer

Hi there,  welcome to Ask Alex.

You tell us that your family set-up changed this time last year and that you are experiencing suicidal thoughts thinking about Christmas this year. Thank you for taking the brave step and telling us what is happening for you. It’s not easy to open up to someone so we appreciate you are here.  

We are concerned to hear that you are having suicidal thoughts. It is very important to talk to someone if you are having thoughts of suicide as soon as possible. There is support there for you. If you need immediate support please contact the Gardaí at 999  or  112;  both these numbers are freephone numbers. 

You can contact Pieta House (www.pieta.ie/) who offer a free crisis helpline for people with suicide ideation and self-harm on 1800 247 247 or Text HELP to 51444. There is also the Samaritans (www.samaritans.org/ireland/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/) who offer a free phone service on 116 123. You may find this article from the Childline website helpful www.childline.ie/how-to-tell-someone-im-having-thoughts-of-suicide/. Talking to your GP about how you feel is useful as they can refer you to support services.  

Have you spoken to a trusted adult in your life about how you are feeling? This could be a family member, a teacher, or a school counsellor. You have the right to feel listened too and supported. An adult may be able to help you get the supports you need.  

Family dynamics and changes are difficult, especially when it comes to changes in our parents’ relationship. Last Christmas was a very big change for you so it’s understandable that you are feeling apprehensive about this Christmas, maybe speaking to your dad can help this? You can work together to think of ways to make this Christmas easier for you, maybe it’s time to create new traditions for you to do together. 

If you ever feel like you can’t talk to someone you know just yet, you can always call the Childline Team at 1800 66 66 66 or reach out through Live Chat at www.Childline.ie . Our services are non-judgmental and confidential. We are here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and we would love to chat with you.

Remember, you don’t have to go through this on your own, there are people who want to support you.

Take care of yourself,,  

Alex  

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