journals diaries and notes

[Charlett]

I know how you feel towards privacy and I agree. My daughter often leaves notes and letter where they an be found. Like in the kitchen or bathroon. They are open. Often the are about hurting herself and other very serious issues. IS it still a violaton of her privacy when she has a history of harmimg herself? Her situation is very difficult and That last thing I want to to loose her. She is in therapy and medicated. We are doing everything we can. I have found less notes lately. I ususally do not say anything to her and leave them where they are. BUt I really am torn on what to do. I have other children who this effects too. CHarlett

[Mike Bradley]

Dear Charlett,
Notes left open in public areas do not fall under the privacy rules, at least to me.
By all means ask her about her scary writings. After you have talked with her, also inform her counselor about what you've read and discussed with your daughter. Regardless of her true intent, any expression of a willingness to hurt herself MUST be followed up. Just remember the rules of engagement: Stay calm (dispassionate), reassure her that you love her like crazy, and then say as little as possible so she says as much as possible. Her bad feelings/thoughts are like bad food. You want her to vomit them out as completely as she can.
Stay involved!