There is something that I need to talk about. There is something that I need to discuss. I need to talk and I need you to listen
The emphasis is directly on 'listen. This is a very general request and could be used to cover the preceding requests, which are more focused.
Often, being able to talk to someone about something clears the mind and clarifies the issues. Even if the other person does no more than keep awake and nod from time to time, this is of high value.
The effort to talk and to express ideas and to describe a situation makes it easier to deal with that situation. Taking to yourself does not work. Talking to your peers may be difficult because the subject may be private and embarrassing. Furthermore you do not want the subject matter to become gossip.
A parent or close adult is the ideal person to talk to - if that person is willing to listen. The person 'talked to' does not have to keep totally silent. That person may ask questions, offer perceptions and suggest options.
It is important to remember that this particular request is not for help in solving a problem or for help in making a decision. The request is directly for someone to listen.
The request may indeed evolve into a request for advice, but this is the choice of the person making the request. It is not up to the listener to provide more than is directly requested.


