If things are tense when you talk to your parents you might try discussing just one issue at a time. How to pay for school as one issue. Another day something else. If they start going astray of the topic, gently remind them "right now I just want to talk about... (whatever the topic is). Can I ask a question about self-harm that isn't meant to offend, but shows the depth of my ignorance about this subject? Right now it is hot as blue blazes outside. I noticed there is trash all over everywhere and I think it is because people just can't bring themselves to walk the few extra paces to find a trash can. Must self-harm be actually physically hurting yourself, or could it be turned to something else? Running, pulling weeds (I'm not trying to be funny, if you've ever pulled a lot of weeds in the heat, it is extremely strenuous work), walking and picking up trash in the heat, shoveling snow in the winter--all of those things if done long enough will wear someone out (and doesn't any physical activity release endorphins if vigorous enough? I get a wonderful sense of relaxation from walking fast for miles)