16, Thinking About Leaving Home

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Re: 16, Thinking About Leaving Home

Hey there, We know that reaching out for help can be hard thing to do, so we are really happy you opened up to us. We are here for you. We know family dynamics can be a bit stressful but it sounds like you’re an understanding, motivated and strong individual. Having a struggle with independence or making big decisions can be really difficult, so you’re feelings are valid.
From what you’ve told us, it sounds like you’ve put some thought into leaving home, and feel like it’s something you want to do for liberating reasons. Before doing so we feel you should consider a couple of things. Seeing as you are a minor, if you should decide to leave your parents could file a runaway report, being a status offense. If the police should find you they would be obligated to just take you back home. Generally one who plans to become independent needs to consider factors of sustainability such as getting a job, health insurance, shelter, food supply, and basic needs. We just want to make sure you are as prepared and safe as possible. Something you sounded very concerned about was the miscommunication between you and your parents. Things you may want to consider is family counseling to communicate with them about the judgment or strain you’re feeling. In terms of telling about the move (if you do decide to do so), maybe including a family member or sibling in a sit down conversation may ease the tension. Sometimes having a mediator with conversations like these can help. We provide a conference call service which basically involves calling a parent up, letting them know who we are and then proceed with a conversation where both sides of the call are heard and respected. If you were interested in any of the following, feel free to give us a call at 1800RUNAWAY and simply ask.

Again we want to thank you for reaching out to us and if you wish to talk further about the situation feel free to give us a call. We are here to listen. Here to help. Best of luck!

I am 16 years old and I have been thinking a lot lately about who I want to be. My parents do love me a lot but, sometimes I can't take certain things. I feel like I want to leave. I am finishing out my high school diploma online and I graduate in November. I will be 17 then. I think about getting a job and taking these months to save money then when I get my diploma, leaving. I have been in contact with a college and have my future planned out with community college and university with a major in Psychology. I feel entitled to my parents though because they do pay for everything and I feel like if I leave they will be really hurt and it will be bad. I want to talk to my Mom about it but, I know she will be really hurt because we are really close and have a bond. I am not really talking about running away because I feel like if I graduate then it should be my choice whether I want to leave or not. But, being 17 then, I feel like my parents will make a fuss and call the cops on me. I am really scared about this idea and won't share it with them yet. But, I just need help. I'm confused, scared of the consequences, and wonder if it's the right choice. But, really, shouldn't that be allowed? I also live in North Carolina so if I end up living without their consent then I wonder what the cops could do if they eventually find me?