TeenHealthFX - Answers - Not Acting Myself

Anger / Question
Published: December 26, 2002

Dear TeenHealthFX,

Hi Im 16 years old i own my own business and i want a car really bad considering the fact my business has to do with cars and its my life I street race illegally and my dad wont let me buy this car i found. Im bullyed at school and ive thought about hurting my self but its not like really killing my self im not a nut case that thinks about it all the time but im the type where ive thought about taking a club to school and beating the living S#*t out of some of the kids that pick on me and my dad because he wont let me get this car my parents are divorced i hate my mother and i love my dad but i just hate him sometimes i have a girlfriend and she really concerned about me becuase she loves and cares about me but alot of my friends have been saying im not acting my self

Signed: Not Acting Myself

Dear Not Acting Myself,

TeenHealthFX is very concerned about you. Although it is normal to occasionally feel angry or upset, when those feelings get out of control and lead to thoughts of hurting yourself or others, it is time to take a look at what is going on. It would be a good idea to reach out to a mental health professional to get some help.

Conflicts with friends and parents are something that many people your age struggle with. TeenHealthFX understands how painful it can be to have to deal with being bullied at school and feeling rejected by your peers. But acting out violently towards the people who are bullying you is not the answer and will only lead to more problems. By the same token, responding to your parent's divorce with anger too will only make you feel worse and more out of control than you already are.

Rather than lashing out, it would also be a good idea to try talking to your parents and let them know how you are feeling and that you want to get help. If they are not responsive, try talking to another trusted adult or counselor at school. You can always ask you doctor or counselor to share your feelings with your parents as well. Also, if you live in the northern New Jersey area you and need a therapist you can contact the ACCESS Center of Atlantic Behavioral Health at 1-888-247-1400 to speak with a mental health professional and to find a counselor.

If, at any time, you feel that you may hurt yourself OR someone else, contact your local hospital or call 9-1-1 immediately. If you live in Northern NJ, you can contact Atlantic Health System's 24-hour Crisis Hotline at (973) 540.0100 or call the Suicide & Crisis Hotline 1-800-999-9999 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Lastly, please know that you are not alone. Many people of all ages experience feelings like those you are dealing with. With the proper support and guidance you can learn to work thorough your angry, confused feelings and start to feel better again.

Signed: TeenHealthFX