Bullying is never okay, even when someone might be a bit (or a lot) different to you.
People might bully others because they’re feeling insecure, unhappy, or trying to fit in – but it’s never the right way to deal with those feelings.
Remember, we’re all different and unique, and that’s what makes the world interesting and beautiful. Everyone has their own strengths, weaknesses, and experiences that shape who they are. It's important to celebrate these differences and treat each other with respect and kindness.
If you ever feel the urge to bully or see it happening, try to talk to a someone you trust to unpack the feels behind it. Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued just the way they are. You could talk to a trusted adult, or even call Kids Helpline to talk about it 1800 55 1800.
Having crushes is a totally normal and natural part of being human. Sometimes those feelings can be intense, and it’s important to remember that crushes can happen unexpectedly — you can’t always control who you get them on. It’s okay to feel confused about it too; you’re definitely not alone in that!
It's important to remember that even though feelings like this are common, not all crushes should to be acted on. It might help to think about why you like them – the qualities you’re attracted to might help you to figure out the qualities you could look for in other people/relationships.
It's always good to have someone to talk to when you're dealing with complicated emotions. Talking to a safe adult or a counsellor could help you navigate your feelings (Kids Helpline is a great option – 1800 55 1800). Remember, it's okay to have these feelings, and with time, they usually change and fade.
It can feel really lonely to keep ourselves hidden - we should never have to hide our true selves or face the hard stuff alone!
Making the decision to tell or show people who we are looks different for everyone, telling a safe adult is often a great place to start! If you think you might be ready to share and meet people who understand, there are safe spaces available! In Cairns for example, youth organisation YETI, run a group called SSAY-IT!
The group seeks to provide a safe and supportive, peer-led space for young people to explore their gender and sexuality. Diverse bodies, gender and sexuality may include but is definitely not limited to – Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Pansexual, Gender Fluid, Trans, Intersex, Queer, BrotherBois, SistaGirls, and people who are Questioning.
You can find more info about the group on IG @ssayit_yeti
Every friendship and relationship has rights and responsibilities. According to the United Nation Declaration of Child Rights, every young person has the right to be respected. Even though we are all different and opinions on interests, lifestyles, and beliefs may not be the same in every friendship, we have a responsibility to demonstrate respect so that young people are kept safe, feel accepted, and have a sense of belonging.
A healthy friendship can communicate differences respectfully and have mutual understandings of boundaries so that everyone feels safe and accepted. Learning to navigate and understand respect in our teenage years can help you have respectful and meaningful friendships and relationships for the rest of your life!
