Could it get any worse? I don't think so. help me please

[dillondprt34]

My father is an alcoholic so my parents divorced when I was in third grade. My dad is verbally abusive. This christmas he said he was gonna get me an ipod but got me a bar of soap and some candy instead because he said I didn't deserve anything more. Ever since the split my mom and my two sisters and I have been financially insecure because my father doesn't pay child support. My mom just got fired from her job so we have practically no income entering the house right now. I have a serious case of depression that gets worse and worse with these issues. I have been developing anxiety as well. My friends are slipping away, getting new friends and leaving me behind. I pray that things will get better but it's like god is messing with me because the more I pray, the worse it gets.

[ccsmod3]

Re: Could it get any worse? I don't think so. help me please

Thank you for contacting us at the National Runaway Switchboard. We are sorry to hear about everything you are dealing with right now. No one deserves to be abused, including verbal abuse. We imagine it is also very difficult dealing with your father’s alcoholism. One organization that can be helpful for teens dealing with alcoholic family members is Al-Anon/ Ala-Teen. We have provided their toll-free number and website if you are interested in discovering a meeting place in your area.

Al-Anon/ Ala-Teen

http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/

1-800-4AL-ANON

It sounds like you, your mom, and siblings, are also dealing with financial problems which probably don’t make things any easier. If you are in need of any social services or legal aids, we would be happy to locate those resources based on your city/state. As far as the depression and anxiety you are experiencing, would counseling be an option? We can also try our best to locate counseling resources, or some youth feel comfortable going to a school counselor or social worker.

The last thing you mention is prayer, so it sounds like faith is important to you. If you attend church or any other place of worship is there someone you can talk to there? If you would like to talk more about your situation, feel free to call us at 1-800-RUNAWAY. We are anonymous, confidential, and available 24/7. We are here to listen and not judge you or tell you what to do. Best of luck to you!

-NRS