Hi Lauren,

Without digging any deeper, I get the feeling there has been some situation in the last couple of years that has happened to you.

You seem to have a strong desire/connection to guys who are older than you, and a need to be loved and accepted. This, no doubt, would have arose from certain circumstances but that is not the important issue here.

You also seem to have a fear of putting your mother under undue stress?

Anyway, without going into your past I think I have some advice that will hopefully help a little.

First of, and probably the hardest step – you need to realise that the situation you are in; isn’t your fault. That may seem weird hearing as I don’t know you or whatever you have been though, but from experience it’s important to first realise it isn’t your fault, and you certainly do not deserve to be feeling how you feel.

Secondly, a little phrase you may want to read a few times “We are what we love, not what loves us back.” (Sorry I really can’t remember if it’s from a song/quote/speech).

Next up, and probably a point you might not like, you are only 15. I’m not making this point as an excuse to say “cheer up” etc, but rather to bring up the point that – you still have the chance to do everything you desire and wish to achieve. Ironically, today’s quote is: “Never forget: This very moment, we can change our lives. There never was a moment, and never will be, when we are without the power to alter our destiny.” ~Steven Pressfield

Following on from that, it isn’t a sign of weakness to admit you haven’t got everything sorted out. I’m 21 and I still feel like a kid. I get the impression you have grown up very fast and perhaps the pressure has been on you to act older than you are – but you are still a kid, so don’t feel bad for asking your mum for help. You’re her child, she would do anything to help you be happy, give it a chance.

I hope this has helped a little, you seem very confused and it’s come at me really fast so hard to get my head around!