Fear of talking to parents

Hi!

Thanks for your message! It is important to ask for help when we are struggling with something. You mention that you are worried and hesitant about asking your parents to meet up with your girlfriend but actually that this is part of a bigger pattern and that you are afraid to ask your parents anything. At 19 and moving toward adulthood it is normal that you are seeking more independence while finding a balance with your family life. I can imagine this can be troubling if you do not feel confident to speak openly about this with your parents.

To move forward in your situation I think it will be helpful for you to explore this feeling and where it comes from further.

What makes you hesitant to ask your parents for permission? What goes through your mind? Are you worried about how they will react or potential consequences?

Once you have it clear what you are hesitant about. You can start to evaluate your fear or potentially discuss it with a trusted someone such as a good friend or a teacher. They can offer some advice or help you practise what you want to say. You can also think about past experiences with your parents. How have they reacted in the past? Have they been supportive? You can also ask yourself what advice would you give to another friend in your situation?

If you decide to talk to them it can be helpful to prepare and practise what you want to say in advance. Write it down on a piece of paper and be clear about what you want to ask. Find a good and calm moment to bring it up in conversation!
Take care! I hope this gives you some guidance!

Kind regards, Martijn