18, ALONE AND FRIENDLESS... I HATE MY LIFE

Dear Coleen

I’m 18 and I’ve come to realise that I hate my life. Yes, maybe it sounds similar to so many problems you’ve dealt with in people of my age.

However, that’s how I really feel. I don’t have friends. I feel alone and, while my family doesn’t treat me badly, my parents are not that understanding either.

I don’t know what’s wrong with my behaviour or habits that lead me to hate everything, but I’m just so fed up with life. Can you help me?

Coleen says I think the teenage years are really tricky for most of us. That time between 16 and 18 is tough because you’re studying for exams and there is a lot of stress and expectation. Then suddenly you’re 18 and can do what you want, but you’re not sure what to do. And people start treating you like an adult and expect you to behave like one. Naturally, it’s confusing.

But look, you can either sink into depression and adopt a ‘poor me’ attitude or you can think ‘I’m 18 and the world is my oyster’ and go out and make things happen for yourself, and take up whatever opportunities cme along.

Maybe your parents don’t understand how you feel because you haven’t explained it to them. Sit down and tell them you’re feeling demotivated and lonely, and see if they have any ideas.

As for friends, they don’t come knocking on your door. You need to get out there and work at finding them – all of us do. Start by finding a hobby or activity you enjoy. And if you’re not into anything in particular, then try stuff and see what appeals. If you’re feeling really low and need confidential support and advice, visit youngminds.org.uk.