I need help.

[Guest]

Hello. I am 12 year old girl. I'll say my name is... Georgia. Not my real name though. My family is mostly indifferent. The cons of staying outweigh the pros. I'm mostly ready to go. Every Time I am alone, I think, "I could just run down the street right now." I also cut, and restrict my eating a lot. I want to just grab my bags and walk out tonight, but it's too cold. I am dreading spring, because then it will be warmer and I will have nothing stopping me from leaving. HELP!!

[ccsmod15]

Hello,

We are glad you reached out to us. From your bulletin it seems like you are dealing with a lot, and it would be difficult to have to deal with this on your own. It sounds like you are struggling with self-harm and eating habits. If you ever feel in immediate danger from yourself or others you can always call 911. If you would like to learn more about resources for self-harming, To Write Love on Her Arms (twloha.com) can be a helpful referral website.

If you would like to find someone to talk to there may be a school counselor or other adult who could provide support and additional resources. Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA; samhsa.gov) is an additional resource for locating mental health services. In addition to bulletin, we are available by phone 24/7 (1-800-786-2929) and are always here to help.

Running away can be a big step and it sounds like you have given a lot of thought to the pros and cons of staying at home. If you decide to leave, what would your overall plan be (i.e long term housing, transportation, financial stability, access to food/clothes, school, etc.)? Having a solid plan about what you are planning on doing it might be a good idea so that you can think about what is reasonably possible for you to do and want isn’t.

If decide not to leave right away, there may be ways to make staying at home a bit more bearable. If there is a school or public library or other community space, you could see about spending more time there to get out of the house. If you have friends or family nearby you could see about staying with them for a few hours.

It can be hard reaching out for help and we are glad you messaged us. If you ever want to talk we are here 24/7.

Good luck,
NRS