The complete list of all life-guiding messages for young people – click the titles for further information
Here are some suggestions that can help you manage peer pressure better: value common interests; say no; try not to judge others; take action and stand up for yourself and others.
You can get out into nature and help the environment by going on a litter-picking walk, volunteering for a conservation project, planting helpful seeds such as berry bushes for garden birds or flowers to help bees, or building an animal habitat.
Hill walking or camping can help to reduce depression and anxiety. When out in nature, you will be focused on staying warm, fed, watered, and knowing where you are, leaving your mind free of daily stresses so you can spend your time being in the moment.
The only way to get through a feeling is to acknowledge it and let yourself feel it. Let yourself feel angry/sad/hurt/frustrated. Don’t let it fill you up so full that you break apart and hurt the people around you.
Sometimes when you lash out at others, it’s because you’re fighting against your natural feelings of hurt and pain. You’re bottling it up so tight, like a fizzy drink that has been shaken too much.
If you’re facing a serious illness, allow yourself to grieve for what has been lost (your independence, certain abilities, your long-term future, etc.), and don’t discount the coping releases of a hearty laugh and a shoulder to cry on.
If you’re starting a new job, try to prioritise completing tasks that complement your existing skills (so you can feel good about doing them well), and that allow you to build a rapport with your new co-workers.
Your brother or sister may turn out to be your best friend someday. Many siblings fight and compete with each other while growing up but become very close when they get older. As you grow up, your friends might change, but your family is yours forever.
All children want attention from their parents, but sometimes you need to take turns. If you’re feeling ignored, talk to your parents. If a parent knows you’re feeling left out, together you can figure out ways to help you feel better again.
If you’re going out on your own for longer than you usually would, or walking somewhere you don’t know well, plan ahead and keep safety in mind. Let someone know where you’re going and for how long, and take a fully charged ‘phone with you.