Education, Academics and School Issues / Question
Published: February 19, 2004
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am a junior in high school. I have good grades and everything else. I want to get my GED because my mom is disabled and she needs me around the house to help her. She also needs me to maintain a job to have income coming into the house. I want to go to Duff's Business Institute in PA to an associate's degree in law to be a Paralegal. Do you think that I should get my GED?
Signed: Should I Get My GED?
Dear Should I Get My GED?,
This must be a very hard situation to be in. FX admires you for wanting to do what's best for your mother and also, for looking to create a good future for yourself. Unfortunately, we cannot make this very difficult decision for you. Only you can make this choice. FX does want you to seriously think about it and weigh your options.
Talk to your guidance counselor, teachers and your mother. Since your situation is different, your school may help you complete your regular high school degree under special circumstances. If this is not an option, maybe these individuals can assist you and lead you into the right direction for gaining some financial assistance for your family and getting help for your mother during the day (or while you are out).
You must feel a great deal of pressure to keep your family intact and do the right thing. This is a lot for a young adult to deal with. You may need help in coping with all the feelings and emotions associated with this. FX recommends having someone to talk to about this, like a counselor. If this is something that you want to do, log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website for referrals in your area. If you live in northern New Jersey and need help finding a therapist you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 973-247-1400.
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Signed: TeenHealthFX
One in four teenage girls in the 
