The complete list of all life-guiding messages for young people – click the titles for further information
The person who is self-harming may feel deep shame and guilt, or may feel confused and worried by their own behaviour. It’s important to approach them with care and understanding. They may not wish to discuss their self-harm with you, but you could suggest that they speak to an anonymous helpline or see their GP.
Some signs indicating self-harming behaviour may include: unexplained cuts, bruises or burns; being fully covered up even when hot; depression, low mood or low self-esteem, and being secretive about eating.
Self-harm is when somebody intentionally damages or injures their body. It is a way of expressing deep emotional feelings such as low self-esteem, or a way of coping with traumatic events, such as the death of a loved one.
Try to be aware of what effect your thoughts have on you. Spend less time thinking about things that make you unhappy and focus more time on thinking about things that make you happy.
If you’ve just passed your first driving test, the New Drivers Act means you’re ‘on probation’ for two years. If you reach six or more penalty points in that time, you’ll lose your licence. You’ll have to apply and pay for a new provisional licence, and means you’ll be a learner driver again.
Shellfish such as prawns and mussels are low in fat and a good source of the minerals selenium, zinc, iodine and copper.
If someone (such as your teacher or boss) is talking and you switch off, that is the time to ask questions.
If you do the minimum of effort required to get the basic job done for a project – either at work, home or school – you’ll get the minimum returns and rewards. Putting in more effort gets much greater rewards.
Plan an escape from your home in advance and talk about it with your family. If a fire occurs you may have to get out in the dark and difficult conditions. Escaping will be a lot easier if everyone knows where to go. Make sure your routes remain free of any obstructions and that there are no loose floor coverings that could trip you.
Vitamin D is naturally obtained through exposure to sunlight and from foods such as oily fish, eggs, fortified fat spreads and some fortified breakfast cereals.