How To Talk To Mother

[Well_Then]

Hey,

 Without going into copious detail about my self or my circumstances I will simply make some dot points.

- Age: 17

- Father died when I was in year 4 (10yr).

- Mother Suffers from Bipolar (medicated).

-  Was diagnosed with ADD (6 months ago)

- Suffer from severe on going back injury. 

 In short I feel that I'm struggling with everyday life, spending hours simply starring at my homework, assessments and general school work when I get home until I go to sleep. I lack motivation... Don't sleep well or at all. All of this has lead to a noticeable decline in school achievements. 

How would I discuss this with my mother, have tried before and was told I was just lazy or faking. How could I have a serious discussion to my mother about how I fell when she really doesn't seem to want to listen.

Kind Regards... 

[Paul]

Hey Well Then,

Welcome. Glad you jumped in here and let us know you need a hand.

I can understand it might be difficult to chat with your mother, especially if the first time didn't go too well.

Have you thought of seeing the school counsellor or discussing how you're feeling with your GP? Of course there are many people on the forums with awesome advice as well.

What are your thoughts?

Paul

[SBeehappy]

Hellllo!

I am 19 and I understand exactly how you feel. I agree with Paul in that a school counsellor or trusted family friend might be the best bet, or here has awesome advice as well. What exactly is your motive in telling your mother anyway? I know it's good to get things off your chest and let her know but if you really feel that she doesn't seem to want to listen, maybe find someone else who will understand and help you.

SB

[HyperDave]

Well you have got a complex set of problems, and sorry about your father.

Unless you can find a way to encourage your mother to understand the importance of listening to you, it may be that you need to find another person to confide in. Maybe you could write her a letter if you think that form of communication may help?

With the problems you have, it would be hard to know if one or all of the problems is contributing to how you feel.

Your problem with sleeping I'd say is one of the highest priority issues that needs to be addressed. If your not sleeping properly you are going to be feeling quite poor in many areas.

If ADD is a correct diagnosis for you, and your on medication, then it could be that the medication is worsening your sleep.

On the other hand, if ADD is the correct diagnosis, and your not on medication, sometimes the correct medication can actually improve sleeping, overall!

Of course your back problems could be worsening all of these problems. And while a lack of motivation and focus is commonly a symptom of ADD, it can also be a symptom of being depressed or due to lack of sleep or from pain.

For one you should probably try and talk to a doctor, such as your regular family doctor, and it might help explaining your situation to a support worker at your school.

Sorry for the length of this. Best wishes to you.