by Jared, 16

My name is Jared, I am 16 and I have Autism and ADHD...

For the past 2-3 years I have been dealing with these disorders more than ever in my life. The only problem is that every chance I was able to get help, I refused...

Sudden urges

See I have a problem with controlling sudden urges to do something wrong, even though I know what I am doing is wrong.

I have taken over the past 2 years, $3,120 from my family. But with treatment and doctors, along with that stolen money, I have cost my family $120,000 in the past year alone.

Selfish

I admit that I have a problem and that I was selfish and I knew better, but all it’s done is hurt my family to the point where they don't have a care in the world if I die tomorrow...

That is just one part of them that feels that way, the other part of them feels sorry for me, and wants to understand how they can help me to change my ways so I can have a life and a future.

Last chance

So recently we had sort of an intervention, where they are giving me 1 last chance to get better before I go to jail, or am sent away to a residential home, where they will try to get help for me, so I can become a part of the family again.

I have caused so much pain and suffering to the point where I just don't care if I have a future if it means giving back the wellbeing of my family...

Change your ways

I am telling you this story so you don't make the same mistakes I have, and hopefully like me you can overcome your problems. But always remember like I do, the first way to fix those problems is admitting you have a problem... and that is why I write this story to you today...to start my path on changing my ways...

This story may have been edited by Children First for Health for editorial and confidentiality reasons only.

For more help and information:

• If you would like to know more about autism please ask your doctor or visit the National Autistic Society
• Visit the national UK Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Information and Support Service (ADDISS)
• ADDERS provides information and practical help, mainly for parents. You can call the Psychiatric Drug Helpline on 020 7919 2999
• YoungMinds is a national charity committed to improving the mental health of all babies, children and young people
• Youth Access has information on youth counselling

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