TeenHealthFX - Answers - Abused And Confused

Suicide / Question
Published: July 6, 2007

Dear TeenHealthFX,

Im only 11 and i feel all alone in this world. i feel like killing my self and im taking abuse that makes me feel even worse! what is the best way for me to deal with it at my age from Abused and Confused

Signed: Abused And Confused

Dear Abused And Confused,

TeenHealthFX is sorry to hear that you are feeling alone and confused to the point of wanting to kill yourself. We are unsure as to the nature of the abuse you are currently experiencing, but it is very understandable that you might be feeling this way if you are “taking abuse” from someone.

FX recommends that the first thing you do is to tell someone about the abuse you are experiencing. If you are experiencing physical, sexual or emotional abuse at home, FX suggests that you find a trusted adult outside of your house (teacher, coach, neighbor, extended family member, etc.) and tell them about what is happening. Depending on the situation, this person may contact your local child protective services agency. A caseworker from the agency would then meet with you and your family members to evaluate the extent of the abuse and to determine what needs to be done to ensure your ongoing safety. If the abuse is occurring with someone outside of your home (a neighbor, teacher, peer, etc.), FX recommends that you speak with your parents or another trusted adult about what is happening so that someone can intervene in the situation and ensure your safety.

Once these steps have been taken and you are no longer at risk for continued abuse, then FX thinks it would be helpful for you to meet with a therapist to learn ways to deal with what you have experienced. How to work through what has happened and best cope with the situation will depend on what kind of abuse you experienced and who was involved – and a therapist can help you with that.

While it may feel scary to do what we have recommended, keep in mind that there are adults out there who will want to help you – to make sure you are safe from abuse and that you have the support and guidance you need to deal with whatever has happened to you. And remember that things can get better here – do please do not resort to suicide.

If you live in northern New Jersey and need help finding a therapist you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 973-247-1400. Outside of this area you can log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website for referrals in your area.

If you get to the point that you are seriously considering suicide or are afraid of your impulses then you need to seek help immediately. You can call 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency room. In northern New Jersey you can also call the crisis hotline from Morristown Memorial hospital at 973-540-0100. Outside this area call the Suicide & Crisis Hotline, 1-800-999-9999, 24 hours, 7 days a week.

You can also contact:

The Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAIN), 1-800-656-HOPE (4673), 24 hours, 7days a week.
The Child Abuse Hotline, 1-800-792-8610, 24 hours, 7days a week. For reporting physical or sexual abuse and to get help.

Signed: TeenHealthFX