Short messages on Relationships issues from Respect Yourself, the guidance site for young people to help make good decisions in life.
Peer pressure is feeling like you have to do something just because all your friends are doing it. It’s okay to say no and make your own choices.
Be respectful of others’ opinions. If they differ from yours, find out what different information they are based on, as this new information may change yours.
Remember that, one day, you will be a role model for someone else. Your behaviours and influence will be picked up by younger people – good or bad. Think how you would want to positively influence their life, and what parts of you they would admire.
It is tough to be the only one who says “no” to peer pressure, but you can do it. Paying attention to your own feelings and beliefs about what is right and wrong can help you know the right thing to do. Inner strength and self-confidence can help you stand firm, walk away, and resist doing something when you know better.
Don’t always apply child rules when you are an adult. For example, as children we are told “Don’t talk to strangers”, for safety. As adults, you can do this and make new friends.
Jealousy denotes a feeling of resentment that someone has gained something that you think you more rightfully deserve; also to anguish caused by fear of unfaithfulness.
Do not forget small kindnesses, and do not remember small faults.
There a few steps you can follow to help you tell your parents you are LGBT: choose a good time (when no-one is stressed), have a supportive relative on hand, keep it simple, speak clearly, and give them time to understand.
“Coming out” is a phrase used when someone publicly starts telling their friends and family that they are LGBT. Be supportive as this is a big statement and they may be feeling emotional e.g. vulnerable, relieved, excited, apprehensive.
Jean Vanier said “Envy comes from people’s ignorance of, or lack of belief in, their own gifts.”