Pat's Answer
May parents and teachers put so much pressure on me
Your Question
There has been so much stress put on me by my parents and teachers, and recently it got so bad to the point where I was so stressed that I needed a way to release and the only way I could get that sense of relief was by cutting myself.
Answer
Hello, Welcome to Ask Pat. Well done on reaching out and sharing what’s going on for you right now.
We are sorry to hear you are going through such a stressful time. We know how difficult that can be, but we also know how great it is for young people to share their problems. Talking about and sharing what is going on for you is a big step forward!Â
You mention that your parents and teachers have been putting a lot of stress on you and you feel the only way to release this pressure and to feel a sense of relief is to cut yourself.
It sounds like you are going through a lot just now. You are feeling a lot of pressure from your parents and your teachers. Have you tried to tell them how you are feeling? Sometimes it may be difficult to open up to those close to us and tell them what is going on, but talking really does help. Would you have another trusted adult or person in your life who you feel comfortable talking to, if you feel that you cannot talk to your parents or teachers? This adult could be an aunt, uncle, or a school counsellor. It is important for your mental well-being that you get the help and support that you deserve and to talk about why you are self-harming. Have you thought about talking to your GP? You have the right to medical advice and to seek support from a counsellor too if this is what you need. Â
You do not have to go through this alone. There are organisations you can look to which can offer you help and support. One such organisation is www.jigsaw.ie. This website may help you understand what is going on for you around your mental health. You can look through their information and they may offer you a direction in how to avail of other supports and services. www.pieta.ie is another website, and they support people who are self-harming like you. You might also like to read some articles on the Childline website www.childline.ie/how-i-feel/.Â
If you are finding it hard to talk to those in your life whom you are close to, you are very welcome to chat with the Childline Team. You can reach us by phone on 1800 66 66 66, by text on 50101 or through our web chat on www.childline.ie. Childline services are free and confidential, and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Childline is here for you whenever you would like to talk or chat. We would love to hear more about what is going on for you, and why you are feeling so stressed. We are here to listen to you and to help you look at options which may be available to you. Â
We hope to hear from you soon. Take care of yourself,Â
Pat