As others have mentioned, the writing style may keep some readers from connecting deeply with the characters or sympathizing. I actually liked it because of this. I love short and precise writing, it's bolder and harsher, but stories with dark themes benefit from it.

As a teenager, I also tried to help a friend who suffered from negligence. Her case wasn't related to a mental illness; instead, she was caught up in a deeply disturbing abusive relationship with an older boyfriend. The only responsible adult in her life was her grandmother, a woman who barely covered her granddaughter's basic needs and much less her emotional and psychological needs. Teenagers have a tendency of trying to solve one another's problems among themselves and not asking adults for help; especially, if in the past adults have failed them.

I think this book explores very well this subject and encourages teenagers in similar situations to seek the proper help they may need.