TEEN QUESTION/PROBLEM:
My mother has been taking my check since May of last year, i work at Mcdonalds, and while it may not be much, she takes it and claims that as my payment to her for "food" and "unneccesary objects", such as my phone, (which does not exceed 50$ a month), television, laptop, etc. I also worked with her(she is a photographer), but never received proper payment. because of this, i quit with her. this was about a month ago. I am no longer allowed to leave the house, i cannot have a phone(though i would pay for it myself, my bfs mother would have added a line to her plan and i wouldve payed her), i have to pay for laundry detergent, and she was charging me for rides. BUT i can now keep my check. i can have no visitors, and she keeps a close watch on what i do. She has called me stupid and pathetic, and says i am only looking for attention because i told my bf what was going on, and his mother talked to my mother, adking if there was anything she could do. my mother lied, saying i never do anything around the house and she cannot financially support me to have the "unneccesary objects"..although my brother is getting my old phone line and getting a new phone for it.. she has said i could move out, but when i told her i was moving out she laughed and called me an attention-seeking clown. "leave, or ill make you" was also said. can i consider any of this abuse?

TEEN LINE WROTE:
Hey Thanks for writing us at TEEN LINE. It sounds like you are having a really tough time with your mom. If you are wondering whether or not this is a form of abuse you can contact the National Child Abuse Hotline 24 hours per day at (800)422-4453. Also, have you considered talking to a school counselor or trusted adult about what is going on? They may have an idea on what to do. Feel free to call us if you need to talk. We're open from 6 to 10 pm (pst) and our number is (310)-855-4673. You can also chat with us at www.teenlineonline.org. We look forward to hearing from you.

a TEEN LINE teen

TEEN QUESTION/PROBLEM:
I have been dating my 20 year old boyfriend for 1 year and I found out he has a baby (born 1 month ago). I love him and don't know what I should do? I think the baby is not my problem, my parents do not agree. I am turning 18 years old soon.

TEEN LINE WROTE:
Hello, it sounds like you are in a tough situation right now, and you are unsure of what to do. Its understandable that you might feel alarmed by the discovery you made. It seems like you've talked with your parents but they did not share the same opinion as you. Have you talked to your boyfriend about this? This might be a good time to think over generally about the quality of your relationship and also about what you want in your life. Also, what about talking with someone you trust like a friend or a trusted adult? Talking with someone else could provide you with a place to relieve your feelings. Also as a third person they might be able to provide you with a different insight. If you have anything else that you would like to talk about, or if you just need a place to talk to feel free to call us at TEEN LINE: 310-855-4673. We are open from 6pm to 10pm PST.

a TEEN LINE teen

TEEN QUESTION/PROBLEM:
I need somebody to talk too... imma senior in high school and I've gotten into gifts with all my friends. Most ended up getting into physical fights not just verbal. I feel hella desertted! So much is going on that I don't know what to do or how to handle it. I can't find a job and I don't know how or where to apply for college. My parents aren't there for me like I need them to be because they done like how I'm not a perfect christian like they want me to be so they basically have given up on me. I have anxiety attacks almost every other day at least cuz I have no one to talk to. Obviously I'm at my breaking point because I would never have thought to do some shit like this. I need help because I ONE...can't keep punching shit when I get angry cuz my hands can't take it anymore. and TWO...I don't have enough money to smoke or drink my emotions anymore DUDE HELP!!! fOR REAL!!!!

TEEN LINE WROTE:
Hey, thanks for e-mailing us. It sounds like you're going through a lot right now and are feeling really lonely. It must be really hard getting in fights with your friends and not getting along with your parents. I'm glad that you're talking to us at TEEN LINE because it shows that you're ready to make a change in your life. Have you ever thought about talking to a school counselor about colleges or getting a job? You could even talk to the counselor about everything else that's been going on. You talked about smoking and drinking when you're feeling upset...not only does that not solve anything it is also extremely unhealthy for your body. Maybe as an alternative, you could try other hobbies like listening to music or playing sports or something that you like to do. I really encourage you to call us at TEEN LINE. Our number is (310)-855-4673 and we're open everyday from 6-10 pm PST.

a TEEN LINE teen

TEEN QUESTION/PROBLEM:
lately i have been drinking alcohol on a regular basis. i would like to stop, but my friends always are doing it. they are not pressuring me to do it, but since i am always with them, it makes me want to. how can i choose not to drink being with my friends?

TEEN LINE WROTE:
Hey,
I'm really glad that you e-mailed us at TEEN LINE. It sounds like you want to stop drinking too much, and I'm glad that you have reached out for help. It seems like your friends are a big part of this. How do you feel about talking with your friends about it? You said that they don't pressure you, so hopefully, they may be supportive and help you with your goal.

Alcoholics Anonymous, is also a place that might provide you with a strong support group. www.aa.org is their website and through the website you could find a meeting that is near you. AA meetings are meetings consisting of people who have similiar problems with drinking, and these people get together to become a support for each other.

If you want to talk more about this, or if you just need a place to talk to, feel free to call us at TEEN LINE. 310-855-4673. We are open from 6pm to 10pm PST.

a TEEN LINE teen

TEEN QUESTION/PROBLEM:
So basically, I don't know what to do anymore. I feel like I've eliminated all my other options. I can't talk to anyone, without hurting them or making them mad. My parents don't have a clue, and they are just making this so much harder for me. I've been cutting. It started a while back, I thought nothing of it because it wasn't too serious. But recently, it has gotten worse. And I'm pretty sure I'm depressed. I'm tired, I can't sleep easily, I've lost some interest in things, I'm sad, I cry a lot. I've thought about suicide, but I won't do it because it's too selfish of me to leave my loved ones behind. But I know I can't keep living like this. So what am i supposed to do? Please help me.

TEEN LINE WROTE:
Hi, I'm glad you emailed us at TEEN LINE. It seems as if you feel that there is no one to talk to because of several reasons, leading you to cutting. It's understandable that it may feel like a pain reliever but there are other options. I noticed that you said you have lost interest in doing things, but maybe you can try doing certain things that would interest you. Like listening to music, drawing, doing some type of sport, or writing in a journal. I am glad to know that you do not see suicide as an option, and have thought about the pain it would bring your loved ones. Have you thought about talking to a school counselor or therapist? Expressing the way you feel is very important and can relieve some of the pressure you are feeling. Also you can call us at TEEN LINE whenever you want to talk. We are open everyday from 6 to 10pm and our number is 310-855-4673. You can also visit our website and use our live chat. We're here whenever you want to talk. There is also a hot-line called safe alternatives and they are open 24hrs. I encourage you to call them whenever you feel like cutting or you can visit their website. Here is their number and website- 800-366-8288, http://www.selfinjury.com/ .

a TEEN LINE teen

TEEN QUESTION/PROBLEM:
My father is mentally abusive with me and my mother is very irresponsible. there are many proplems going on in my life that it has reached a point where i cant take it anymore and i want to be away from them and live with my aunt and uncle... Is there anyway that I can do that

TEEN LINE WROTE:
Hey,
It sounds like you are in a bad situation at home and you would like it to change. If they will not give you permission you can call the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) at 800-540-4000. They might be able to find a way legally for you to live with your aunt and uncle since your dad is verbally abusive and your mom is irresponsible. It might also help to talk to a school counselor or a therapist about how you are feeling. I would imagine you are going through a lot right now and having a support system like that where you can talk openly and freely about anything you want may really help. You can also call us at TEEN LINE at 310-855-4673 between 6pm and 10pm PST.

a TEEN LINE teen

TEEN QUESTION/PROBLEM:
Hi, I've been suffering off and on from depression since I was 13. I'm now 18. I've never received medical treatment for it and have tried my best to deal with it naturally. From the time I was 13 to the time I was 15, I was involved in "self-mutilation". I cut my arms when the pain in my life became too much to deal with. This has only made my life more complicated, because when people ask about the scars now, I have to make up a lie so they don't think I'm crazy, a term people of lesser emotion and intelligence use. First of all, there is no such thing as "normal", considering it's not normal to be normal. Therefore, I don't believe the term crazy is a valid definition of anyone. I have a lot of friends, and during my high school years, I was not the goth kid in the corner of the hallway, showing how deep her cuts were off to everyone. I was one of the popular girls. I'm 5'9" and 125lbs. In high school, I was the girl that hung around the pretty girls, who constantly took pictures at parties, and wore designer handbags. I'm only telling you this so you might realize that not just sad losers get depressed. It's a lot more common than you think. The real reason why I'm writing is because lately, I've had reoccurring thoughts of suicide. After finishing my first semester of university, and coming home for Christmas break, everything has gone to shit (pardon my language). I got a brand new pack of gorgeous girlfriends and partied more than I studied. Since my dad is paying for my schooling, he decided that I wasn't going back to university. In addiction, he took away my car. This all happened after my mom sold our house (my mom and dad are divorced) and made me live with my dad. I sleep all the time, and I either over-eat, or I don't eat at all. My brother came over yesterday, grabbed my throat and started choking me, saying that I treat everyone like shit. Meanwhile, none of my friends know any of this, because I pretend I'm perfect around them. I'm so fake, it makes me sick. I have no job, no school, no car, and I'm living in a house that I am not welcome in. Everyday, I think about buying sleeping pills and a pint of vodka, and putting everything to rest. My friends would be sad because they wouldn't know why I did it, because they've never even seen me show I'm sad. My mom, dad, and brothers would call me selfish, and turn up their noses, pretending they are the ones being victimized.

TEEN LINE WROTE:
Hey, thanks for contacting TEEN LINE.

It seems like you're going through a lot, and that you're feeling sad because not that many people seem to understand how you're feeling. It must be difficult hiding all of these things - like depression, and cutting - from your friends and family. The fact that your brother choked you is worrisome. Violence is never justified and I am wondering if this has ever happened before? I'm glad that you were able tell us about your suicidal thoughts. Have you talked to a friend, family member or a counselor about how you've been feeling? It might really help talking to somebody and you shouldn't have to go through this alone. You can also call the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 877-727-4747 whenever you are feeling suicidal (they're open 24 hours a day). Cutting is also a serious thing, and it can be detrimental to your health. I know that life can be difficult, but maybe you can focus on the good things in your life. Is there anything you like to do? Like reading, or writing? Have you considered what you're going to do in the future? Maybe whenever you feel like cutting, you can start reading or writing - just something to get your mind off of cutting. Whenever you get the urge to cut you can call Safe Alternatives at 800-366-8288 and they're open 24 hours a day - they can help you find alternative ways to deal with cutting. You can also call TEEN LINE at 310-855-4673 PST between 6-10 pm, we'd be glad to talk to you.

a TEEN LINE teen

TEEN QUESTION/PROBLEM:
What can i do about my anger? I get extremely mad at the drop of a hat. Just an example... The other day i was playing a game on my computer and i got instantly pissed about something that went wrong. So i just flat out punched the monitor... the thing is i didn't realize it until after i did it. I have realized that most of the time when i get angry i do get physical, and am kind of afraid that one day i am goin to hurt someone close to me and not be able to help it. i do not have insurance or money to get medicine so what should i do?

TEEN LINE WROTE:
Hey,
It sounds like you are really concerned that you might hurt someone unintentionally. It is a really big step to realize that and it is great that you are trying to take action to prevent it. Anger is a powerful thing. The fact that you do not realize your anger has turned to violence is scary, so wanting to get help is definitely the way to go. I am wondering if you know why you get so angry? Maybe these are things you could explore in counseling. I know that you said you have financial issues, but there are counseling centers that are either free or sliding scale, which means they are low cost. You could do a google search for a counseling center near you. Also, maybe you could consider going to an anger management program. They, along with counseling, can help you work out what is causing your anger and different techniques to control it. For the time being, however, if you feel like you starting to get angry, could you walk out of the room and leave your current environment? That way, if you do start to get physical, no one would be around to get hurt. Also, exercising or writing in a journal when you get angry may help so you could burn up some steam and get your emotions out. If you want to talk more you can call us at TEEN LINE at 310-855-4673 between 6pm and 10pm PST.

a TEEN LINE teen

TEEN QUESTION/PROBLEM:
hi, umm well I have more of a question then a problum but its probly both..anyway I have been in tharipy sense I was about 9 and Ive been dignossed with a few things over the years(im 17 now)and I have been in psych wards a few times well I stopped cutting like a year ago and Ive only slipped twice sense I quit but lately the uges are stronger and more frequent and I have had thoughts of suicide again and I ushally just tell my tharapist and let them put me back in a psych ward just to keep myself safe but this time I cant seem to tell if can tell my tharapist and we dont have an appointment for a while and I guess Im just worried..so I was wondering if someone thought I should just go to the psych ward or wait till I see my T or I dono anyway yea thats my isshue right now soo thanx for any advise in advance.

TEEN LINE WROTE:
Hey, thanks for reaching out to TEEN LINE. It's understandable why you're feeling confused as to what you should do. You've been through a lot. I'm glad you were able to tell us about your urges to cut, and your thoughts about suicide. It's really brave of you to ask for help. Have you talked to anybody else about your suicidal thoughts besides your the therapist lately? Like a close friend, or a parent? It's difficult to deal with on your own, and it might help to tell somebody about it. If going to the psych ward and talking to your therapist helps you stay safe you may want to consider that too. There's also a hotline for suicide, and they're the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 877-727-4747 and they're open 24 hours a day. About the cutting, is there anything you like to do ? Like reading, or writing? Maybe every time you get the urge to cut you can pick up a book and read ? Just something to keep your mind off of cutting. There's a hotline called Safe Alternatives, and they can help you find alternatives to cutting , their number is 800-366-8288 and they're open 24 hours a day. If you need somebody to talk to you can always call TEEN LINE at 310-855-4673 and we're open from 6PM to 10PM PST.

a TEEN LINE teen

TEEN QUESTION/PROBLEM:
I have a girlfriend and she wants to have sex! I'm scared! What should I do?

TEEN LINE WROTE:
Hey,
It sounds like you are feeling a lot of pressure from your girlfriend. Sex is always a huge step in a relationship, especially if it is for your first time. I am wondering if you have spoken to her about how you feel about the situation. Sex isn't something to approach lightly, especially at such a young age. You have time to consider all your options and what you really want to do. If she continues pressuring you, you might want to consider if you still want to be with someone who wants you to do something you are not comfortable with. If you want to talk more, you can call TEEN LINE at 310-855-4673 between 6pm and 10pm.

a TEEN LINE teen