You are so young still. There are plenty of people who take time off or get off on a bad start and then turn their lives around. You just finished high school, don't put too much pressure on yourself. Whatever you choose to do, I would advise to go back to school to get a post-secondary degree or you will be missing on many career, friendship and personal growth opportunities (although there are other ways to do that as well, such as travelling). You are a good kid to take care of your parents and family but I'm sure they wouldn't want you to sacrifice your future and happiness for them. You could go to a local university (it's just a few hours a week, not full time like high school), work part time, and stay at home at the same time so you can take care of your family. There are many people who do that. If anything, it's good for your mental health to do other things.

I grad'd highschool in 1996, didn't end up going to College until 2002!! and Graduated with honours and am so thankful i went back then. I knew people who went right after highschool only to hate it or move onto another course (some had no idea what they wanted to do) I worked @ Future shop and A&B Sound and loved being in retail (computer sales). Didn't make much money, maybe $15 an hour back in the late 90s? but it wasn't too bad and i got by. Loved the jobs and social aspect of it. Fast forward to now. I have a college diploma with honours, 3 certifications and over 10 years experience with the government as a Systems/Network Admin. Make near $40 an hour with vacation, extended medical/dental and tons of perks. Don't worry about other people as the above poster said you have so much ahead of you. Just enjoy it and don't be pressured to do anything. I'm also so happy i went back @ 22 because i learned a lot about the world and myself and knew exactly what i wanted to do in a career and am so glad i chose the way i did. Wish you luck and enjoy it because it goes so bloody fast! Best of luck :)