Q: Try to pick a time when they are in a good mood. If you start a conversation like this when they are already angry, it will not go well for you. If necessary, ask your to schedule a time. It is important to be open and honest. Tell you parents clearly what you want to talk to them about by making an observation about their behavior that bothers you. For example: "Mom and Dad, I've noticed you make disparaging comments whenever I talk about my college plans." You need to provide examples of their behavior that hurts your feelings so that your parents can’t dismiss your observations right off the bat. You can refer to the list you made of instances when they behaved negatively toward you if you find it helpful. Say: "For example, you told me I shouldn't join the science club because you think I'm bad at Biology." It is important not to make this conversation all about placing the blame on your parents. You need to take responsibility for your part, but also tell them about your feelings. Explain why you're hurt because your parents may not be aware of how their behavior affects you. Discuss your feelings, but don’t get overly emotional.  Use "I feel..." statements. For example: "I feel hurt and devalued when you compare me to Cousin Jimmy. I feel like you're saying my hard efforts are no good." Defend yourself. Say: "I'm confused when you scold me for making a mess. I always pick up after myself, and my room is organized." Ask why the parent is doing the behavior. They may have a misguided idea, and think they're doing the right thing. Ask nicely, and if possible, provide an alternative. Tell your parents how it makes you feel and that you would like for them to try to stop making you feel that way. Give them an alternative solution to their current behavior. For example: "I would like you to stop blaming me for the behavior of my little brother. I'd rather you address his problem with talking back rather than claim that I'm setting a bad example when I'm clearly polite." Sometimes it is hard for people to hear that they are making mistakes or hurting someone else – especially for a parent to hear that from their child. If your parents get upset, make excuses, or become defensive with you when you try to talk to them, be sure to remain calm. Let them say what they want to say, but remind them that this conversation is about how their actions make you feel. It may take your parents a little bit of time to process this new information about how their behavior makes you feel. You’ve been thinking about it for a long time, but it might come as a sudden shock to them. Give them some time to adjust and figure out how to change their behavior on their own. If your parents refuse to acknowledge the problem or change their negative behavior, it might be time to seek outside advice. Ask your parents to attend a counseling session with you or talk to the pastor at your church together. Sometimes having another adult to listen objectively can really help solve the problems.
A: Sit down with your parents when you have their full attention. Start the conversation with an observation. Give examples of specific exchanges. Talk about your feelings. Ask your parents to stop. Stay calm if your parents get defensive. Be patient. Get outside help.

Q: You will need to work with your doctor and therapist to determine the underlying mental illness that led to your mental breakdown. This will help you determine what the best mode of treatment is, including the right therapy, medication, and other treatment options. You will need an official diagnosis from your doctor or therapist. You will need to describe your symptoms and behaviors that led to your mental breakdown to determine your underlying disorder. There are many forms of psychotherapy that can be used to help after a mental breakdown. The one you use will depend on a mixture of your personal preference and the underlying mental disorder that led to your breakdown. Talk with your doctor about which treatment is best for you. These forms of therapy include:  Talk therapy, where you and your therapist work through your issues by talking Cognitive behavior therapy, a form of psychotherapy which focuses on changing your thoughts in order to change your behaviors Interpersonal therapy, which focuses on your relationships with others After your breakdown, you should look into a mental health support group. This will help you connect to others that are going through similar things and provide you with the support you need to recover. Talking to others about your problems can help you gain perspective and get helpful advice about how to cope. Ask your doctor for a referral to a local support group. You can also look into national foundations, such as the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) for local chapters with support groups. Depending on the underlying cause of your mental breakdown, you may need to start taking medication. This will help relieve the symptoms of the mental illness that contributed to your mental breakdown and can help you level out your moods.  Your doctor and psychologist will let you know which medications you will need. These can include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, or other similar medications.  If you are uncomfortable with any medication prescribed to you, ask you doctor if it is necessary. If your doctor won't listen to your reservations about it, get a different opinion.
A:
Determine the underlying cause. Go to therapy. Join a support group. Consider medication.