DEAR ABBY: I am a 12-year-old about to turn 13. I don't remember all the details of a letter in your column that touched me, but I do know what it was about -- sniffing inhalants.
When I read that letter I knew it had to be God speaking to me. I was experimenting with inhalants -- and having problems such as depression and suicidal thoughts that were beginning to take over my life.
I looked at suicide as a way out. I had it all planned, but my cousin talked to me, sensed something was wrong, and I confided in her. I didn't think she'd squeal, but she did. At first I was mad that she'd wrecked my plan. Fortunately, I was put into "Teen Recovery" to work out some of my problems.
After five days I was out and on to a new and better life -- thanks to the world's best parents, cousins, grandparents and friends that a person could ever have.
I hope my letter today will encourage some other troubled boy or girl out there to reach out if they're in trouble. Just sign me ... PRE-TEEN WITH NEW HOPE
DEAR PRE-TEEN: I, too, hope your letter reassures other kids who are in trouble that they can get the help they need. Caring family and friends are the best support system in the world.