Dear YouthLine,
Im 17 and pregnant and me and my boyfriend are living with my parents. Its so stressful with the drugs and constant threats of being kicked out because they dont approve of me being pregnant. what can i do to get me and my boyfriend out of here and where we can stay together? Thank you
-Amber
Dear Amber,
Thank you for contacting the YouthLine and reaching out to us for help! It takes a lot of courage to do that. It sounds like you are in a very stressful and overwhelming situation right now, so I think it is great that you are taking this step to make your situation better for both you and your baby. It sounds like you really care about the safety and well being of you, your baby and boyfriend. I don’t know much about your situation, so if you feel comfortable with it, I really encourage you to give the YouthLine a call at 1-877-968-8491. There are teens available to talk to you Monday through Friday from 4-9pm. By calling, it is much easier and convenient to offer you the best support and resources we possibly can.
In your question, you mentioned the stress you are experiencing due to the drugs. I am unsure of who is using the drugs, but it is of course not a healthy or safe environment for a developing baby to be around, but especially so if you are using the drugs. Now that you are pregnant, you are forced to think about not only what is best for yourself, but your baby as well. It sounds like you are doing just that by looking into a different living situation. I understand that you live in Vancouver, Washington. I highly suggest that you check out Janus Youth Programs. This organization offers resources and housing throughout Oregon and Washington. This may or may not be the best option for you, but regardless I think that they could really offer you some help and point you in the direction you are needing to go. The information to contact them is below. You can also visit their website to learn more about the work they do and how they can best help you. Also, if you are not already seeing a primary care physician, I strongly encourage you to see a doctor or to visit Planned Parenthood so that you can receive prenatal resources and care.
http://www.janusyouth.org/home.php
Southwest Washington Area
Oak Bridge 24-Hour Youth and
Family Help Line
888.979.4357
For immediate shelter and crisis intervention for youth who have run away from
home in Washington
360.213.5947
For street outreach services and
information on emergency shelter for youth in Southwest Washington
http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-center/centerDetails.asp?f=2455&a=0&v=details#
888.875.7820
I hope that this is helpful! I wish you all the best
Amber, and like I said, you can call the YouthLine any time at 1-877-968-8491
-YouthLine