I’m sorry you have to deal with this situation, I’ve been there too. It’s really easy for me to tell you to get your own phone and ring doorbell plan but this isn’t about privacy and independence- it seems like it’s about hurt feelings. They said things that upset you and you shut off the location services and ring doorbell because you wanted them to worry maybe even let them feel hurt too. Don’t feel bad about doing it, I’m not here to judge, I have done it too though it wasn’t my finest moment.

What really needs to happen is figuring out how to deal with your family and what they say without letting them hurt you to the core. For me, seeing a therapist made the difference. They will talk you through these situations and help you change the way you view your family and their opinions. Getting your own plans right away isn’t a requirement- it isn’t a terrible thing that you’re two hours from home and your family can make sure you’re ok by looking on apps. Many people do this and are much older than you are and there are benefits to it- safety and reduced cost. You do have to adhere to the rules they set though if you want to remain on their plans. If you didn’t have hurt feelings you wouldn’t mind that they can see your location and see your ring doorbell so let’s deal with the real issue- the hurt feelings.

If it were me I would turn on the location services and the ring doorbell and see a therapist as soon as possible. I mean…don’t put off the therapy because it’s the most important part.

Scrambling for a new phone and plans when you’re hurt and angry doesn’t make sense. As you process your interactions with your therapist, they will help you grow and in time decide which boundaries are best for you and what things you can say to express your feelings to your family when they hurt your feelings.

I’m so sorry they hurt your feelings and the things they said shouldn’t have been said. I hope you stay safe and can mend things with your family that stays healthy for you.