How can I make my family understand that I'm not seeking attention and just trying to get the help I need?

Sometimes it's hard for them to distinguish. Try sitting them down and having a serious talk with them-- explain to them exactly how it is you feel, but try not to sound accusing, whiny, or dramatic. Practice what you'll say beforehand, and do your research so you know what it is you're talking about.

Try a different approach to the method of asking for help. If that doesn't work, give them a bit of a reality check by explaining the repercussions of not achieving the help that you need.

This is probably not the helpful answer that you're seeking, but it's the truest one I can give from my perspective - there is no way you can 'make' anyone see or do anything. Your parents have a choice of what to believe. You can offer as much supporting evidence for your case as humanly possible, but they can still choose not to believe you. This might seem like they are rejecting you, but it's not you they are rejecting so much as that they don't want to accept that you need help or that anything could be wrong. Sometimes parents take it as a reflection on themselves if their child is suffering in any way and this could actually be bringing up their feelings of inadequacy or helplessness. I don't know your situation or your parents, but from a very general standpoint, this is what I would imagine they could be feeling. Don't give up on trying to get help, though. Parents can control a lot of our lives up until we turn eighteen, but doing small things that you can, like going on this website and looking up self-help guides, is a way to get around them potentially not allowing you to seek help in other ways. Lots of love to you. xoxo

First, it would be beneficial to sit down with your family, all in the same room and making sure they're all listening. Good nonverbal communication involves eye contact, small responses like "mhm," head nods, and positive body posture are what you should look for with your family. I would start by explaining the problem and say things such as, "it makes me feel sad and not worthy when I am seen as seeking attention rather than getting the help I need," or "I feel ignored when I'm told that I'm seeking attention and would appreciate more support." These are examples of nonviolent communication. Instead of saying things like, "you need to pay attention to me," or just, "I need help," try to explain WHY you feel you need help and how it makes you feel when you are potentially being ignored or labeled as "seeking attention."

Have you tried honestly communicating with your family what it is that you want exactly, point blank? I understand that sometimes it may be difficult to open up but it is really important that you clearly assert what your needs are; otherwise, people are left guessing your feelings and making assumptions.

It seems like your family doesn't really understand you. I personally believe that talking to them might help as the most important part of anyone's relationship is conversation! But if they still don't understand, they may never at least not until they see what you are going through.

Discuss with your family exactly how you are feeling. Bottling up your feelings will make you feel worse. The first step is opening up and being honest.

Firstly you find someone who would listen, then to confront your whole family at once. Then you don't scream, or get angry but politely ask them to listen to you. You explain to them your needs and ask them for their aid. Then let that person represent you to talk to your family, and it should go just fine.

Sit them down and calmly tell them what's going on. If they aren't prepared to listen then perhaps speak with your doctor or counsellor who can refer you to the services you need. If you need to speak with someone who will listen and empathise with you then there is always here at 7Cups. I hope that helps.

It would be best to sit with your family at a time when you are calm and explain to them that you are in need of help and what you believe to be the best resource to get that help.