Just Jesse, 15

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Just Jesse, 15

I didn't know if I should post this because I'm lucky enough to have both of my parents together and I'm not on any addictions. Pretty much what I'm saying is I'm not sure if anyone other than me calls this a problem or has the same problem as me. Anyway, I'm in 10th grade and since 1st grade I've transferred schools 5 times; and I'm in my first year at a certain school again. I'm used to being the new kid, meaning I really don't have many friends because I'm never in the same place for too long. Because I never get a chance to make many friends, let alone get a girlfriend, I get really lonely a lot; and in 8th grade, I seriously considered suicide; but an adult convinced me life is worth living. I just want to know if anyone else sort of is in my shoes or if there's anything I can do to make things better.

Just Jesse, it's understandable that it might be difficult making and keeping friends when you transfer schools so often. Kids that have parents in the military often experience what you are going through.
Nowadays, it's easier to maintain friendships through social networks, like Facebook, for example. When you make a friend, you could add them to your "friends" list. Keep in touch with them when you leave. Post photos of where you live now and let your friends know what you're up to.
Keeping a friend that lives in another city or another part of town could also give you a place to vacation or visit in the future.
When you transfer to a new school, make sure you join clubs where you can get to know more people. It's easier to make friends with people when you share a common interest.
There are pros and cons to every situation in life. If you are in a military family, focus on the good things about growing up military. For instance, you probably have seen lots of places other people only dream of. It's nice to be able to explore new territory and learn about different cultures. You would have the opportunity to do both!
You might consider speaking with a counselor or therapist about how you are feeling. It's possible that how you feel could affect your performance at school or even cause you to have post traumatic stress when it's time to move again.
Please do a search for stories written by other teens that may have moved a lot, like you have.
If you are in a military family, we encourage you to click on the Growing Up Military section of our site and do the survey. This section will be available soon and your feedback is important.
If you ever feel suicidal, please call Child Help USA at 1-800-422-4453. Someone is always available to talk to you any time of day.