How do I find support?

[Guest]

I need help. I am done with my parents, with the constant disappointment and yelling, the taking care of my sisters, all of it. I thought of what happens if I run away, but that's just not an option for me, leaving 3 younger sisters behind, and I am only 15. I do need help though, and I do not know how to build that support. I only have 2 friends, but I need an adult, to know my situation, and to talk to when it gets worse. Hotlines like these only go so far. My school counselor is not an option, just because she "doesn't have the time", and family members are a definite no because they think my parents can do no wrong. What can I do?

[ccsmod5]

Hey there,

Thank you for reaching out to the National Runaway Safeline. We are glad that you are reaching out for help and are so genuinely sorry to hear about what you are going through. It sounds like life at home now comes with a ton of responsibility with caring for your sisters and is both exhausting and draining. We’re also very sorry to hear that you have very little support with it comes to the adults in your life including lack of support from your family or school counselor. You deserve to have unconditional support and your reality should be listened to by your family members. We are so sorry that you do not have that loving support.

Perhaps reach out to National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) which peer-support service providing information, resource referrals that may be able to help find you counseling services near you. We also recommend that you call your insurance provider and see what types of counseling services you can receive through insurance.

Depending upon the area that you live in, there may be counseling options in your area that we could help you find, as well, if you call in to NRS at 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929) or www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button). We hear your concern about hotlines being a temporary fix, so if you reach out to us directly, we may be able to find something more consistent that you can build trust and relationship with to get the emotional and mental support that you deserve.

We are here as support to help through this challenging time. If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately.

Please be safe,
NRS