TeenHealthFX - Answers - Mother Is An Alcoholic And Father Is A Criminal

Parents & Family / Question
Published: March 7, 2009

Dear TeenHealthFX,

My mother is an alcoholic and druggie and my dad's a criminal running from the government. They are both trying to take me away, but I don't want to go away. I've also been having problems with my friends. My other family members hate me though, so they'll be gald to get rid of me. What do I do?

Signed: Mother Is An Alcoholic And Father Is A Criminal

Dear Mother Is An Alcoholic And Father Is A Criminal,

TeenHealthFX thinks that it is very important for you to reach out to a trusted adult who can give you support and guidance in dealing with this situation. Depending on the circumstances, child protective services may need to be involved since it sounds like there is good chance that neither one of your parents is currently in a place to be adequately caring for you. You could speak with a teacher, school counselor, your principal, doctor, school nurse, extended family member, private therapist, or any other trusted adult who you think could be helpful to you. It is very important that you have adults in your life to look up and go to when you need guidance, advice or a shoulder to lean on – so please reach out for help with this situation as soon as possible.

FX would also like to say that if you have family members who are hateful towards you, it doesn’t mean that something is wrong with you. The problem in their being hateful may easily be theirs and not yours. So know that you have strengths and wonderful qualities and that there are adults and peers out there who will value you for who you are and want you in their lives.

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. You can also contact your insurance company to get a list of in-network mental health providers or check with your school social worker or psychologist to get a list of referrals in your area.

You can also contact the Youth Crisis Hotline at 1-800-448-4663, 24 hours, 7 days a week if you are in any kind of crisis or emergency situation.

Signed: TeenHealthFX