I will be 16 in December, and I want to move out after my birthday or next summer.

[Unregistered]

I am 15 years old and my birthday is in December. I really want to move out because of my issues at home. I think it is depressing me and causing problems with my relationship with God. My father is addicted to drugs and alcohol and in the last 5 years, I have been put through hell. I've had to ride in the car with him while he was swerving all over the road, and when he gets high he likes to play with his loaded guns which is really scary because he "jokes around" and points them at you and I have cried to him and poured my heart out and told him that I can't remember him how he used to be and how I feel like I don't have a relationship with him because he can't be a real dad to me when he is always high and in a bad state. He keeps moving out and moving back in because my mom kicks him out and then lets him back in but every time he comes back they just fight the whole time and when he is gone she is really mean because she is upset. I have a problem with self harm and I get really nervous whenever I'm around my family and it makes me really depressed. I've seen a counsellor and I went to her for a year and I don't feel any different and whenever I go to school I just break down and cry because I don't want to go back home and I don't have a job and I don't know where I would go but what I want to do is get a job in December when I turn 16 and maybe try to get my parents to help me get a small apartment close by so I could still be close but have my own place so I don't have to be around the chaos all the time.

[ccsmod6]

Re: I will be 16 in December, and I want to move out after my birthday...

Hi there,

Thank you for writing to us here at National Runaway Safeline (NRS). We understand it takes great courage to reach out, and we appreciate you sharing a little bit about what’s going on. It sounds like there at home that is stirring up some depressed feelings. We’re sorry that you’re feeling unsupported at home. You mentioned your father’s struggle with substance use which seems to make you feel unsettled and unsafe. From what you shared, you’re faced with a lot right now and you’re feeling like living away from your family is best for you. We want you to know that we are here as support to help you through this challenging time.

We thought to share a helpful resource for support. Al-Anon and Al-Ateen are resources for those struggling with substance use and family members of those that suffer. The information can be found below:
Al Anon Hotline: 1-800-356-9996
Al-Ateen Hotline: 1-800-344-2666
Website: www.al-anon-alateen.org
Available: 8am-6pm (EST), recorded message after hours
*Provides referrals to local chapters of Al-Anon and Al-Ateen
*Al-Anon provides support groups for family and friends of alcoholics through a 12 step program
*Al-Ateen provides support groups for children of alcoholics

We can best help by phone or chat as NRS is unable to respond more than twice by email or bulletin for assistance. If you would like to talk more in detail and explore some helpful options, please call or chat soon.

Our contact information is 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929); www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button).

If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately.

We hope to hear from you soon.

Be safe,
NRS