Alex's Answer

Hi there, and thanks for reaching out to Ask Alex. 

You have asked what you should do if your parents are shouting at your older brother. It sounds like things may be tough for you at home if you are witnessing a lot of shouting between family members. 

Firstly, it is most important that you keep yourself safe during these times. Sometimes people express themselves by shouting and this can feel uncomfortable for you to experience. It might help to go to a safe space like your bedroom if this is happening, so you don’t have to hear what is going on. As we have said it is especially important for you to be safe and staying away from the shouting might help with this. 

This may feel quite stressful for you as it sounds like you want to help put an end to the shouting. Do you feel like this is something that you may be able to talk to your parents about? It may help to try and address it when things are calm and if you feel safe to do so, you could say how it upsets you or makes you feel and they may help with coming up with alternative solutions to shouting. If you do not feel safe or ready to do this it may help to talk to a friend, cousin or a trusted adult about this and they may be able to help with some advice for this as they may know more information about your situation. 

Childline are always there to listen, and you do not have to go through this on your own. You can call on freephone 1800 66 66 66 or you may prefer to chat to us online on www.childline.ie. You can start a chat at any time by clicking on the Orange Tab on the right-hand side of your screen, Sometimes, if we talk about what we are experiencing it can make it a little easier. 

Thanks again for reaching out.  

Take care of yourself,  

Alex