Parents & Family / Question
Published: July 3, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
My mother yells what seems like all the time, she is never happy with anything no matter what, she has OCD, and a strong obsession with eating too much and then throwing it up and then complain about her weight. She yells so much that it drives my dad crazy to where he leaves and then my mom takes her anger out on herself and sometimes slashes her wrists. This has gone on way too long, What can I do?
Signed: Mom Yells All The Time
Dear Mom Yells All The Time,
TeenHealthFX understands that this is a very difficult situation for you. This is a situation that you will not be able to solve or fix on your own. An adult needs to step in and try to get your mom the help she needs. The logical choice to try to get you mom help is your father. If your father does not or will not get your mom help, try finding another adult who can help - an aunt, uncle or grandparent. You could also talk to your mother's doctor and share your concerns. Your mom's physician could intercede on the family's behalf and recommend that mom be evaluated for treatment and also make a referral for family counseling so that you all can deal with the trauma you have experienced.
If your mom has already been diagnosed with OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) she may already have a psychiatrist who is treating her. Your father or other adult can call the doctor and let them know your concerns about your mother's behavior - the anger, the binge eating and purging and slashing her wrists.
Although this is a very difficult situation, your mother needs to get the appropriate medical attention. The emotional and physical effects your family will experience due to your mothers emotions and actions will only cause more tensions.
If at any time you feel that your mom may hurt herself call 9-1-1. You can also call a crisis hotline - in northern New Jersey, 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.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
At least 50% of sexually active men and women acquire genital HPV infection at some point in their lives.
