Ask Me Anything! - RespectMe

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“How do you know when you’re about to get your period?”

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.

“Do you like garlic bread?”

Is there anyone who doesn't?! Definitely one of the greatest foods ever created, and we will not be taking any further questions on this.

“What should I do if my friends and siblings want me to kill myself?”

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

“Why don’t most primary school relationships last?”

Really great question — and the answer is actually pretty fascinating! You're all changing incredibly fast right now, and who you are at 11 is genuinely different to who you'll be at 13 or 15.

Healthy relationships need two people who feel safe, equal and connected — and when everyone is growing and changing at different rates, it makes complete sense that things shift. It doesn't mean the feelings weren't real, it just means you're all in the middle of becoming who you're going to be. And that's actually kind of amazing.

“I like a boy but he has a girlfriend. What do I do?”

Feelings don't come with an on/off switch, so first of all — you're not doing anything wrong by feeling this way, and it happens to a lot of people.

The most respectful move here — for him, his girlfriend, and honestly for yourself too — is to keep those feelings to yourself and give yourself a bit of space if you need it. Part of being in respectful relationships is recognising other people's boundaries, even when it's hard.

Feelings shift more than you'd expect, and the right person at the right time is worth waiting for.

“WHY ARE BOYS SOOOOO ANNOYINGGGG !!!!!!!!”

The all-caps energy here is very understood! People can genuinely get on your nerves sometimes, and that frustration is completely valid.

Here's the thing though — everyone, regardless of gender, has the right to be treated with respect, and so do you. When someone is annoying you or not treating you well, you're allowed to create some distance and put your energy into the people who actually make you feel good.

You get to choose who you spend your time with, and you deserve people around you who treat you right.

“I feel like I don’t have a voice, what should I do?”

That’s a tough feeling. When people don’t listen or take you seriously, it can make you feel invisible — but your voice does matter, even if it hasn’t felt that way lately.

Start by talking to one person you trust. It could be a teacher, family member, youth worker, or someone at school who listens. Writing your thoughts down can also help if speaking feels hard.

You have the right to feel heard, and there are people out there — like Kids Helpline or headspace — who are always ready to listen, no judgement.

Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) is free, confidential and available any time of day or night. You can connect to the Kids Helpline webchat here https://kidshelpline.com.au/get-help/webchat-counselling

“What is classified as bullying?”

Bullying is when someone keeps being mean on purpose — like teasing, spreading rumours, threatening, or leaving you out — and it happens over and over. It’s not just one fight or someone having a bad day; it’s repeated behaviour that makes you feel unsafe or small.

If this is happening to you or someone you know, you don’t have to handle it alone. Tell a teacher, guidance officer, or another trusted adult at school. You can also talk to a parent, carer, youth worker or call Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) any time. You deserve to feel safe and respected — and there are people who want to help.

“How do I make a boy or girl like me?”

Wanting someone to like you back is totally normal — and it’s okay to wonder what you can do. Crushes can feel exciting, confusing, and sometimes a bit intense. But the most important thing is to stay true to who you are. You don’t need to change how you look, act, or talk just to get someone’s attention.

You can’t make someone like you, but you can be kind, respectful, and show your personality. If it’s meant to be, it’ll be because they like you for you — not because you’re pretending to be someone else. And if they don’t feel the same? That doesn’t mean you’re not worthy or awesome — it just means it wasn’t the right fit. If you ever feel unsure or upset, talk to someone you trust like a parent, carer, teacher, or call Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800). You’ve got this.

“What does it mean to be in a boyfriend/girlfriend relationship?”

Great question — this stuff can feel confusing when it’s all new, especially since everyone seems to have different ideas about what a “relationship” even is. A boyfriend-girlfriend relationship (or any kind of relationship!) can mean different things to different people. Sometimes it just means two people like each other and want to spend more time together — texting, hanging out, sitting next to each other at lunch, or calling each other cute nicknames.

What really matters is how you’re treated. Any kind of relationship should feel safe, respectful and kind. You should never feel pressured, uncomfortable, or like you have to change who you are to make someone happy. If anything feels off, or you're just not sure how to handle it, it’s always okay to talk to someone you trust — like a parent, carer, teacher or support person at school. Or you can call Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) anytime for a chat.

“I don’t have any friends at school since they started ghosting me, and all the other girls in my grade are doing the same. I tried to be friends with the boys in my grade already, but they just act weird when I’m there. What should I do?”

That sounds really hard — feeling left out by people you care about can be one of the worst feelings. You’re not being dramatic, and it makes sense that this would hurt. It can feel super lonely when you’ve tried to reach out and things still feel off. Just know: you haven’t done anything wrong.

Sometimes friendships shift or change, and it’s not your fault. If things aren’t working with your usual group, try linking up with someone outside your class — maybe through a lunch club, sport, or even a school helper or buddy program.

If you feel stuck, talk to a trusted adult at school like a teacher, chaplain, or wellbeing staff. They might be able to help you connect with people who are kinder and more inclusive. You deserve friends who actually want to hang out with you — not ones who leave you guessing.

And if you ever just need to talk it out, Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) is free, anonymous, and open 24/7.

“I want to cut my hair short like a boy but when my mum saw some of my hair cut shorter she freaked, I’m not sure how to tell people. Do you have any ideas?”

It makes total sense that you want to express yourself through your hair. Trying new styles is a big part of figuring out who you are — and it’s okay if that doesn’t line up with what other people expect. Wanting short hair doesn’t mean anything’s “wrong” with you. It just means you’re being true to yourself.

If your mum reacted strongly, she might’ve just been caught off guard, not angry at you.

Give it a bit of time, then try having a calm convo about what this change means to you. You don’t need to convince her, just share where you're coming from. As for other people – you don’t owe anyone a big explanation. A simple “I felt like trying something new” is more than enough. And if you need someone to talk to, a teacher, school support person, or Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) is always there.

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