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First of all, let us commend you for your academic success. This is a wonderful accomplishment and one you should be very proud of. Continue to push yourself toward excellence and the rewards will follow. As to the situation with your parents, we would approach it as you might any homework problem – with logical reasoning. For example, try to see it from their point of view – they want you to continue to be at the top of your class and are concerned that you might be better educated in an academic setting where the standards might be higher, thus forcing you to challenge yourself more. We would
approach them and explain that you are committed to your studies, and that you have no intention of "slacking off" if you enjoy some free time with your friends. Also try to help them see that you are able to balance both your schoolwork and outside activities by providing them with, for example, a recent report card or academic update, showing them how well you are excelling in school. Let them know how important your studies are to you and that you do not intend to jeopardize them by also having time with your friends. Your parents simply need to see that you are capable of juggling both your excellence in academics and your friends. This might take some "hard evidence" on your part, but it can be accomplished. Friendships are very important for teenagers, and your parents probably know this.
Do not run from the situation, as it will only make things harder. Your parents love you and trust you to make smart decisions. Running away would betray their trust and only add more to the problem. Suicide is NEVER an answer. An attempt to harm yourself would most likely make your parents even more over-protective. Just as you are willing to sit and listen to them, they too need to sit and listen to you. Perhaps it might help to write down the issues that trouble you and present them in a concise manner. This will show your parents how serious you are about this matter and that you intend to continue to perform well academically, but you would like the opportunity to socialize as well. You appear to be a bright young woman and we am confident that you will succeed in explaining the situation to mom and dad in an adult, calm manner that will produce an outcome that pleases everyone.
For more information, check out these articles:
Family vs. Friends
Talking to Your Parents
Help, I Want to Commit Suicide
Posted 8-20-03
Do you have a question?  As a reminder, this information should not be relied on as medical advice and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Please read our full  .
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