Hi, Woody! So glad you found us and posted, since you are having a rough time. Teen-age years can be the grandest and also some of the most painful. You have a lot of hormonal changes going on; you're an adult in many respects, but a new one--you have a lot of fun-loving kid left in you too! Birthdays are always a bit stressful, even if you get the best presents and have a fun-charged party with great friends. Christmas is like that too--extra emotions; even if good, it's stress, not the run-of-the-mill time of your life, the average days. So be a little kind to yourself.

What can you do? Maybe try to see a counselor. There might be one at your school, if you're not out for the summer. Or try going to your doc, and telling him/her what you are feeling, like you did us. Ask if you can get help from a therapist to explore your feelings with you and help you understand them. It's great that you are reaching out now, as problems only get worse if you don't try to deal with them.

Another option for counseling might be a pastor or minister or rabbi. They are trained in counseling usually, and will see their parishoners at no charge as a part of their ministry. You'll feel better with an ally. And remember, counselors need to respect your confidence, so you can tell them everything that is bothering you and they will help you. They help you by giving you a perspective to deal with what's bothering you and tips for how to handle things. Good luck to you! Write back and let us know how things are going.