Having trouble sleeping can feel really difficult, and we’re not going to tell you to “just close your eyes” or “put your phone away”… because when you’re lying there wide awake, that advice is honestly so annoying and not helpful.
If you’re stuck awake until 2am, there’s usually a reason for it, even if it’s not obvious. A lot of young people go through a stages where their sleep changes and they might have trouble getting to sleep, especially during puberty. On top of that, your brain might be busy or overthinking – even more when you are stressed about NOT getting to sleep!
Instead of trying to figure it out on your own, here’s some ideas to help:
- Start by talking to an adult you trust. Let them know what’s been going on and how it’s affecting you.
- Ask them to if this is something you could talk to a doctor about. This is exactly the kind of thing they’re there for.
- Before you go, write down what’s been happening. Things like what time you’re falling asleep, how often it’s happening, and everything you’ve already tried. That way you don’t have to remember it all in the moment, and they can actually see the full picture.
And if being awake at night is starting to mess with your mood or feel overwhelming, you don’t have to sit in it alone. Kids Helpline is there 24/7 on 1800 55 1800, even at 2am when you’re wide awake and over it.
Eating is how our bodies get the fuel they need to grow, think, move, and stay healthy. When we eat food, we chew it and swallow it so our body can break it down and use the nutrients for energy.
For most people, eating regularly throughout the day helps the body and brain work properly. Different people eat different kinds of food depending on their culture, family, and what foods their body can handle — and that’s all part of normal life.
If eating feels confusing, stressful, or difficult for you, you don’t have to deal with that alone. Talking to a trusted adult, school counsellor, parent, carer, or a doctor can really help. You can also contact Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800). You deserve to feel safe and supported when it comes to food and your body.
Your body usually gives you some hints in the days before — things like cramps in your lower belly, feeling more tired than usual, mood shifts, or some bloating. Everyone's signs are a little different, so it takes a bit of time to get to know your own body.
Once you've had a few periods, keeping track on a calendar or a free app can really help you predict when it's coming. And if you ever get caught off guard at school, just head to the office or sick bay — they will always have pads and will help you out warmly and privately. Your body is nothing to be embarrassed about, and the adults at your school are there to support you.
We're really glad you asked this, and we want to be really clear — if anyone is telling you to hurt yourself, that is not okay. Ever.
You have the right to feel safe, and what you're describing is serious.
Please talk to a trusted adult — a teacher, school counsellor, or someone at home who is safe. If that feels too hard right now, Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) is free, confidential and available any time of day or night. You don't have to carry this alone, and reaching out is one of the bravest and smartest things you can do.
You can connect to the Kids Helpline webchat here https://kidshelpline.com.au/get-help/webchat-counselling
