DEAR ABBY: I’ll be 18 in six months. I know I should be happy, but to be completely honest with you, I’m scared of becoming an adult. I don’t feel ready to grow up and leave my childhood behind. What do I have to do? What can I do? — HAPPY BIRTHDAY

DEAR UNHAPPY: What exactly are you afraid of? Not all people mature at the same rate. It takes some people much longer than 21 years to assume the responsibilities of adulthood. Others are ready at age 18, provided their parents have already assigned them some responsibilities. The insecurities you are experiencing are things you should talk to them about. You can also talk about this with a trusted teacher or counselor at school. If you do, you may realize that you are not alone in the feelings you have.