Dear Dennis:

I have a 6-year-old who has recently starting telling me he hates himself. And everyone around him. He yells at his 15-month-old brother. He tells me he wants to live somewhere else. He says he wishes he was never born and that his sis was never born. It breaks my heart. He treats me like crap then says he is sorry. He doesn't listen to anyone other than his stepfather who has been his Dad for the last 3 years or so. I'm at the end of my rope. I want to give up so badly. I don't know what to do. It seams like the harder I try the less it helps. I hate to say this but sometimes I want to give him away. Please help me. I need to know what to do. I don't want to give up on my child. I never thought I would have him. I prayed for him for many years. Please help. — Meechell

Dear Meechell:

This is not a healthy situation for any of you. I would suggest an immediate call to your pediatrician for a referral for both you and your son to see a psychiatrist. Some underlying issues need to be addressed. Perhaps there is a jealousy towards the brother and he is crying out for the attention. Whatever the issues, he needs help and so do you. Make the call. Good luck. — Dennis