15 and I want to run

[Guest]

I am a 15 year old girl and I want to run. My parents are going through a nasty divorce and it has made me very unhappy. I used to cut myself. I take ADD pills (not my own) every morning so that I can concentrate throughout the day and avoid thinking about my home life. I drink and smoke every weekend and I want to get away from everything. I want to get clean and sober and I want to be happier. I think the only way that is going to happen is if I run away. I am not abused at home or neglected or anything, but I am not happy at home, ever. I need help with gathering up the courage to actually to run. Please help me thanks.

[ccsmod3]

Re: 15 and I want to run

We’re glad you felt comfortable posting some of your situation on our bulletin board. It sounds like you are going through a rough time right now. We are sorry to hear that your parents are going through such a difficult divorce. How have you been coping so far with everything? Have you considered talking to someone like another family member, friend, teacher, counselor, etc.?

You also mentioned that you used to cut yourself, are you able to stay safe now? If you are thinking of hurting yourself, you are welcome to talk to someone at our hotline, 1-800-RUNAWAY. We are anonymous, confidential, and are available 24/7. Some other resources that may be of help are:

S.A.F.E. (Self Abuse Finally Ends) Alternatives 1-800-DON’T-CUT
–They are not a traditional hotline, but can answer questions during business hours (8am-4pm CST) and can refer you to other resources for self injuring behavior.

National Suicide Hotline
1-800-273-TALK

You mentioned wanting to get clean and sober as well as wanting to be happier so it sounds like you have set forth some goals for yourself. How do you see those things happening? If you are not sure, you are welcome to call our hotline and we would be happy to discuss options with you.

As far as a response to your last statement, we are not in a position to tell you whether to run or not. With that said, we cannot actually help you gather up the courage to actually run. That would ultimately be a decision that is up to you. If you did run away, what would your plan be? In most states it is not considered illegal to runaway, however, most states recognize harboring a runaway a crime. What this generally means is that if your parents (or guardian(s)) do not give you permission to stay somewhere, that person could potentially get in trouble if charges are pursued. Is that a risk you are willing to take? Are there any other options you feel are available to you? We hope that some of these questions allow you time to think about your situation and if you would like to discuss anything more in depth, again, you are welcome to call us at anytime at 1-800-RUNAWAY. Stay strong!

-NRS