It is my experience, having lived in 3 different states in the US, that many people (regardless of age) are kind to you so long as you fit in and are like everybody else. If you dare try to be different or think for yourself, or if you have some kind of obvious mental health issue, most people are quick to judge and discriminate you at best and outright bully you and treat you like an animal at worst.

Personally, I would rather die than lose my individuality and be like everybody else.