Short messages on Relationships issues from Respect Yourself, the guidance site for young people to help make good decisions in life.
If a friend is dealing with an issue but taking it out on you, challenge them. Set boundaries and say something like: “I know you have something going on, but you can’t take it out on me.” Ask if there’s any way you can help them deal with the issue.
If you feel nervous on a date, remember that they probably feel nervous too. Reassure yourself that you both feel the same.
When going out on a date, try focusing on the two best qualities you have to offer – like maybe you have a good sense of humour and you’re caring. This will help you feel good and positive about yourself.
The friend that puts you down to make others laugh or to make themselves feel better, or manipulates you, or pressures you into doing something you don’t want to do, is not really your friend.
Friendships can end because one friend hears the other has gossiped about them. Know the difference between sharing information and gossiping. When you share info about a friend, you’d say it to their face. When you gossip, you wouldn’t say it to their face.
Connect with family, friends, colleagues and neighbours, at home, work, school or in your local community. Think of these as the cornerstones of your life and invest time in developing them. Building these connections will support and enrich you every day.
Your opinion matters a lot to your siblings. We often work on our relationships with friends, schoolmates and co-workers; our family relationships need work too. Small acts of support can go a long way.
Breakups hurt, but losing someone who doesn’t respect and appreciate you is actually a gain, not a loss.
It’s easy to get upset if people or parents compare you and your siblings. Remember that you’re very different people with different talents, interests and abilities; recognise these positive attributes and value your siblings for their different qualities.
Sometimes sibling fights can escalate to physical violence, especially if one feels defensive. Remember that violence is never an acceptable way to deal with feelings, and will hurt you both, both physically and emotionally.