16 and in NC

[Unregistered]

I'm 16 and want to run away, I need to start over and begin new again. I need advice on how to effectively do this and if it is the best route. My life seems to be falling apart before my eyes and I have nothing left here in my present situation. Please help

[ccsmod11]

re: 16 and in NC

Hey there,

Thanks for reaching out to us and it sounds like you’re going through a tough time. We’re sorry that you’re feeling like you have nothing left in your present situation. That can be a really hard feeling to deal with and it’s great that you’re seeking help. It sounds like starting over and having a new beginning is important to you. It might help to think about some ways that you can do that, whether that’s staying at home or leaving. One possibility is to not completely leave but to set up times where you can stay with friends or family to just take a break from everything that’s going on. If you do decide to leave, some questions to consider are:

Where would you go?
Do you have a plan?
Is it safe? If it’s not, what can you do to feel safe?
Is there another option other than leaving?
Do you have anyone you can talk to about your plan?

You can also always call us to talk through all of this. Unfortunately we can’t give advice, but we are always here to talk about what’s going on, brainstorm options, or offer resources and support.

Another thing is that we aren’t legal experts but because you mentioned you’re sixteen we can give you a bit of general information if you do decide to leave. Because you’re a minor still, if you decide to leave, your parents can file a runaway report. If they do that and the police pick you up or find you, they would have to bring you back to your legal guardian. You won’t get into any legal trouble, just brought back home. Also, if you decide to stay with someone and a report has been filed, that person you stay with could potentially get in trouble for harboring a runaway. Again, we aren’t legal experts so this is just some basic information.

We’re really glad you reached out and feel free to contact us if you want to talk more about what’s been going on.

Stay strong,

NRS