Dear Annie: I don’t understand why people see me as a threat. I have no devious plans or intentions. I’ve never been in a fight. Throughout my life, I’ve been bullied — from elementary school all the way through college — by the same girl. Despite everything, I’ve always tried to help others. I feed the homeless, even though I am homeless myself.

I feel like I carry a curse from my mother. She has never truly liked me and has done her best to tear me down, even now. I never had the chance to be close to my dad. When people listen to her lies, they often turn against me, and that hurts deeply.

I am in constant emotional and physical pain. Sometimes, I hurt myself and run away from those who try to love me because I don’t know how to accept love or support. People lie about me to gain things or to manipulate situations, and I feel exhausted trying to explain myself or clear up the misconceptions others have of me.

I am begging for help. I can’t do this alone anymore. Please, I need support, understanding and compassion. I want to heal and find peace. I just don’t know how without help. — Please Help

Dear Please Help: You’ve been through more than most people could bear, and it’s no wonder you feel exhausted and alone. The fact that you’re reaching out shows courage — and that you want to heal.

There are people and organizations ready to help you. You can call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, for free 24/7 support. If you’re in danger, the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) can help you find a safe place to stay and access caseworkers who understand what you’re going through.

For ongoing emotional support, you can reach out to the National Alliance on Mental Illness at 1-800-950-6264 or by texting “NAMI” to 62640. They’ll listen and connect you to counseling options, even if you can’t afford therapy right now.

You’ve already shown compassion to others in need. Please allow others to show the same compassion to you.

Dear Annie: My 18-year-old son is spending a gap year abroad. Our family celebrates Christmas, and this year my husband, our two other children and I have decided to join him.

Here’s the problem: We’re only arriving the evening of Dec. 25. My son says he doesn’t have a problem spending Christmas Eve by himself, but I can’t help but feel he’ll be lonely on this special night. None of his friends will be staying locally.

My husband and I do have some friends in this city, but I don’t know how to go about getting him invited to their Christmas Eve plans without imposing or making people feel obligated.

Any suggestions? — Empty Nest Mama

Dear Empty Nest Mama: You sound like a loving mother who raised a brave, independent young man — and that’s exactly why he’ll be just fine on Christmas Eve. At 18, he can stand on his own two feet. If he insists he’s comfortable, try to take him at his word.

That said, if it’d ease your mind, there’s nothing wrong with discreetly reaching out to your friends: “If you happen to have room at your table on Christmas Eve, our son will be in town, and we’d love for him to have company since we won’t quite make it in time to celebrate. No pressure.” I’m sure your friends will understand where you’re coming from and be happy to make room for him if they can.

And if it doesn’t work out, your son still has your family’s celebration just a few hours away.

Follow Annie Lane on Instagram at @dearannieofficial. Go to http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Send questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.