I’m a homeschooler, and things at home are getting rough. I’m stressed all the time, but I don’t feel like I can tell my parents. I don’t have outside resources. How do I get counseling without them knowing?

We are sorry to hear things have been difficult at home. With COVID-19 precautions, so many young people are feeling stuck at home and many are struggling with challenging family situations. Your ability to access counseling without parental knowledge depends on where you live. Some states in the USA allow 16-year-olds to engage in therapy without their parent knowing. It may be worth having a conversation with your parents about your desire for additional support. Your primary care doctor can help you with this conversation. If talking to your parents is not an option, you can access crisis resources such as the Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741), which is free and private.