I am only 15 years old. I am the youngest in my year - Year 11 - and I can't face leaving school. I keep having nightmares about it and not having any money.

I know my family will support me but I can't even decide which college I wanna go to. I just don't wanna let them all down!?!

Jade, aged 15

REPLY:Do remember that it's not surprising that you feel the way you do - it's a very rational reaction to a difficult and scary situation and many other young people feel the same.

Try not to feel pressured that you have to have all the answers straight away, just take things one step at a time.

You say you know your family will support you, well that's great!

Make the most of that support and take your time to gather as much information as you can. Talk to other young people who have been through a similar decision process and find out what has worked for them.

Spend time thinking about what you are interested in and the type of work you believe you would be good at and enjoy. If you have to delay going to college because it's taking time to make a decision then don't worry too much - once you are 16 then it should be possible to find some temporary work to help with financial support.

Provided that you talk to your parents and let them know how committed you are to making the right decisions in life and, of course, that you will take some action eventually then they are likely to support you all the way and be proud of your approach.

February 14, 2002 13:39