"Hey, Rhiannon!" This sounds really tough. I think she may be making up these ghost stories because she is just going through a tough time with her mom. I'm sure she misses not seeing her mom so she is taking her emotions and anger out on all of her friends.And, maybe she really is seeing ghosts, we don't know that. Only she knows the answer to that.

But, from the sounds of it, I think she just wants attention. I think she probably wants the attention because if living with her grandparents is something new to her; they may not be giving her the kind of attention she wants for such a big change. I also think there may be other things going on in her life right now. If she's crying a lot, she may be going through a really rough time at home. And she also may not be crying about what she claims to be crying about. For example, when she was crying at the Junior Olympics she could be a little upset about that, but probably not enough to cry about it. Her emotions could be getting carried away and she might just be crying because she misses her mom, or even about something else. When people are down, even the littlest thing can make them upset.

I would definately not suggest dropping this friend. I think you should have a private, one on one talk with her and find out what's going on with her. Ask her if there's anything she wants to talk about, and if she's upset about something. Maybe all she wants right now is a shoulder to cry on and a good friend. That person could be you if you want to. Don't pry into her life, especially if she doesn't want you to, but just be there for her. She's probably very upset.

Make sure when you talk to her it's just you and her and no one else is around. That could make a huge difference on what she's going to tell you. If she tells you she's upset about something (like her mom) then just tell her you want to be there for her. Ask her about the ghost stories and if they are true, too. Just be there for her if she's going through something like that. Otherwise just ask her why she's acting so emotional all of a sudden. Was she like this before? If so, you never know, she could just be the type to take her emotions to the next level. But if not, it's probably because she's upset about something. I hope things works out with with her. Good luck, Rhiannon!

 

Whitney, 15, Canada