I moved out at 19 in my sophomore year of college. I dont have the same situation as you, and I'm sorry you have to go through that. Here are my big pieces of advice. One: Find a roommate or roommates, it will ease financial burden and it will also keep you safe. Two: Do your research to wherever you are moving. How far is it from school? From the store? From work? What is crime like? Is it a tight knit community or a bustling city? Three: GIFTS. For Christmas and my birthday I asked for common items found in a house. My grandmother got me a microwave for Christmas one year and I still have it to this day. I asked for plates, silverware, cups, pillows, blankets, you name it. People LOVE gifting things, especially for an apartment. Finally, DO NOT GIVE UP. I was told numerous times I would fail and end up bankrupt going to school, working, and living on my own. Trust me, it is HARD. But I love it. And lots of people do it, so you can too! Hope all goes well for you! 💛

Did you just graduate high school, are you going to college in the fall? Have you applied for financial aid? Do you have a budget for rent? How far away is 18 for you? Do you have a job?

You biggest barrier will be lack of income for rent if you try to move out while you still a high school student. My sister did it though. Its a lot of work to work and go to high school at the same time.

I think getting far away from a toxic environment can be one of the most freeing and best things you can do for your mental health. I would agree with your therapist.

I get the mom part. I’m 18, and recently had to come to terms with the fact that my mom has been abusive towards me for my whole life. It turns out all my grandparents and aunts and uncles saw it, but felt they couldn’t do anything to help me because they didn’t want to upset my mom. Hang in there.