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Something’s not right

I worry about my parents and my siblings

I worry about my parents and my siblings

My parents have always argued in front of my older siblings and myself. We grew up having to go to the furthest room in the house and sing songs really loud to drown out their yelling. There is an 8 and 10year gap between myself and my younger siblings. I spent my teens trying to protect them as my older sisters did for me.
I feel as though my own struggles with depression and anxiety stem from my parents unhealthy relationship. Now that I am doing better for myself (counselling and off medication) I worry that my younger siblings may be developing similar issues.
My father works overseas so we only see him for a few days every 2 or 3 months. Similar to other long distance relationship ships , loyalty is questioned. I don't want to believe my father would be unfaithful but the things my mother has said during their arguments don't sound so made up. Today i heard her threaten him over the phone with her own life. I did not react straight away. I'm just keeping an eye on her. I know my father, he is stubborn. I know he would think that she's just saying it for attention but I also know my mother and I know how hurt she is.
I want them to stop arguing, even if it means they seperate/divorce. I want them to see a counsellor but how do I talk to them about it? How do I get them to help themselves?
My little sister has cried to me once before because she's scared my mum will hurt herself.
What do I do? How can I help them?

12 replies

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In response to: I worry about my parents and my siblings

Re: I worry about my parents and my siblings

Hi @NicK 🙂

Just letting you know I have seen your message and will respond to it as soon as I get the chance!

Kindest,

Amour_Et_Psyché

In response to: I worry about my parents and my siblings

Re: I worry about my parents and my siblings

Hi @NicK

Finally got the opportunity to fully respond back to you. I am glad you have found your psychologist helpful, and that you have strategies to help you cope with your anxiety (i.e., practicing mindfulness). As you said, mindfulness - or any strategy for that matter - is not for everyone. Ultimately, it is about finding what works for you!

Yes, having people who support you and bring you positive, rather than negative energy, can be so helpful - I am glad you have found such support in your two best friends and your boyfriend.

You actually seem to have lots of positives in you life @NicK! A very big CONGRATULATIONS to you for getting into uni - that is a huge accomplishment! But, it is understandable that you are still worried about your family. Have you tried setting a quiet time aside to have a conversation with one or both of your parents? Doing this in a calm way, and iterating your care and concern for your parents/siblings, could really encourage your family to seek the support they need. Do you think this is a possibility?

Kindest Regards,

Amour_Et_Psyché

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