Dear Queenie,
All my life my parents have shouted at me every time they think I’ve done something wrong, or not as good as they want, which is all the time. Whatever I have an opinion about they think I’m wrong and call me stupid for thinking that way.
Queenie, sometimes I just wish I could die and get away from it all. What else can I do?—Depressed son
Dear Son,
What you are describing is verbal abuse, which can be just as destructive as physical abuse.
If you are too young to live on your own, ask a teacher or guidance counsellor or some other adult you trust for help in learning to cope with your parents and the way they treat you, and, if possible, help in getting professional counselling for that purpose.
If you are old enough and can manage to afford it, move out and have as little to do with your parents as possible – and if they object, tell them exactly why you are doing so.
