Ways to help with my family?

Your parents of have grown up in very abusive homes. Naturally I don’t know whether the abuse was physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, or whatever. But the have been through it, that is for sure. First thing to do, make sure at all times that you conduct yourself differently than your other family members. You be the adult, in as far as the way you talk, listen, emotions, reacting to others, and just display the type of person you want them to be. Then start with your dad. Go to him in a private moment, no one else around. Then ask him, “Dad, no disrespect inteneded, but is it possible you were abused in some way as a child?” “Dad, you seem so unhappy, and I was just wondering if it was because of how you grew up?” If he turns you away, or just blows off the questions, let it go for a while, then another day do the same thing. Tell him that you love him, and it hurts you to see him so unhappy. Over a few weeks, it may take a few attempts, but your dad will pick up on the message regardless. Don’t pester him, don’t ask every half hour. Be sensitive, he may have been through hell. But let it all take time. Patience is something adults rarely learn, so if you learn it at 14, you will be way ahead of the game! If you believe in God, pray. If you don’t, pray anyway! Conquer your dad first, he is your best chance. Save mother after she has seen your dad change. Good luck, and take care! Don