Can I open up around my mom?

I feel like I have all these emotions going on and I don't tell my mom any of it. I only tell my BFFs. I just feel weird telling her stuff.

Whenever my mom and I are in the car and I am not looking or I look sad, she will ask me what’s wrong. I just say I'm fine but I feel so all over the place! Should I really start to tell my mom everything?

First off, it's perfectly normal to be feeling all of these crazy emotions—and to not know what to do with them, either! Everyday we experience a range of emotions. It’s just learning how to express them to the right people so that we’re back on our feet and living the awesome life we deserve. And there are so many people to help you do that!

No one likes to tell their parents everything—even me! We feel weird sharing so much with the ‘rents because we’re not quite sure if they can relate. But guess what? Mom and pops can feel ya more than you think. The best part? They know exactly what to do to help, too. That’s why your mom is asking what’s up—she probably has a ton of wisdom to share, and she’s just waiting for the right moment to hear you out and give her input.

Next time your mama asks how you are feeling, you don’t have to tell-all. Because like you said, you may not even know what it exactly IS that you’re feeling. Try something like, "I've been feeling a little weird lately, but I think I just have a lot going on." She’ll probably ask you a few more questions to help you sort through those uncertain feelings. You don't have to spill everything but you can start off with some small stuff—you don't know how to study for your science test, you need a creative idea for your oral proj or you want a cool new look for your V-Day dance. Share as much as you feel comfy with.

Part of feeling “all over the place” is because you have so many thoughts spinning in your mind that you just can’t sort out on your own. Think of your emotions like the pieces to a really hard puzzle. Talking to a trusted adult (like your mom!) is a really fun and fast way to put those pieces together to finally see the picture!

Should you tell your mom everything? Well, not necessarily, but definitely never feel too embarrassed or too shy to share whatever is on your mind. Some stuff—like the lowdown on all of your crushes—might be best left with your chicas. But your mom def has tips on studying, style and more that you never would've imagined. Your mom should never pressure you to share what you don’t want to but letting her in a little bit will help you build a healthy relationship. And while you're at it ask Mama what's new her in life, too!

POSTED ON 1/9/2010 7:00:00 AM

POSTED IN problems with my parents