“What are some great things to do when you feel mad and sad?”
This is a great question because everyone feels mad or sad sometimes, and knowing what helps you is like having your own emotional cheat codes. You could take some slow breaths, move your body, listen to music, draw, cuddle a pet, have some quiet time or write down what’s bothering you. Different things work for different people, so it’s okay to try a few.
It can also really help to tell a trusted adult or friend how you’re feeling. If the feelings every start to feel too big, won’t go away or make you feel unsafe, please don’t think you have to handle them alone. Think about which adults you might feel safe talking to and let them know what’s going on. And remember, if the first person isn't sure how to help, that's okay - please to keep telling safe adults until you find the right support. You deserve to feel heard, supported and safe.
If you’d rather talk to someone outside your family or school, you can call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or chat with a counsellor online https://www.kidshelpline.com.au/get-help/webchat-counselling . It’s free, private and available any time, for any reason.
“My 2 friends are fighting and I am in the middle of it.. what should I do?”
It can feel really stressful being stuck between two friends who are fighting. Remember, you don’t have to choose a side or fix the argument for them.
You could tell them, “I care about both of you, but I don’t want to be in the middle.” Try not to pass messages, share screenshots or join in with gossip. Encourage them to speak directly to each other when they are calm and ready to be respectful.
If the fighting involves bullying, threats or makes you feel unsafe, please talk to a trusted adult. You deserve to feel safe - always - and friendships where you aren’t made responsible for other people’s problems.
“I’m scared I might date someone who turns out to be unsafe. How can I tell if someone is right for me?”
We know that dating and even just thinking about dating can be really overwhelming sometimes. The good news is that you don’t have to know straight away, and choosing to date someone isn’t one big decision you have to get perfectly right. You can take your time, get to know them and change your mind at any point.
There are lots of things that would make someone right for you. A good foundation is someone who will respect your “no,” give you space and is okay with you having other friends. You should feel able to be yourself, speak honestly and make your own choices around them. They won’t pressure you, rush you or ask you to keep uncomfortable secrets.
You also don’t have to notice every warning sign on your own. If someone starts making all the decisions, constantly checks where you are, follows you or keeps contacting you after you ask them to stop, tell an adult you trust.
You don’t need to find the perfect person. Take things slowly, notice how they treat you and remember that safe relationships should feel respectful, equal and comfortable. If something doesn’t feel right, you can step back and talk it through with someone you trust.
“Do you like cheese?”
Yes. VPG's RespectMe team is categorically pro-cheese. Thank you for asking the important questions.
