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Your relationships and identity
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Whether you’re experiencing problems with bullying or are about to start a serious relationship with a boyfriend or girlfriend, relationships can be pretty stressful.
Finding yourself
As we get older, things affect us more and this can mean feeling low or having lots of 'ups and downs'. Sometimes we feel like we don't have as much in common with our friends as we used to and sometimes pressure from friends can make us do things we really don't want to do.
The most important thing to remember is that everyone is different and special in their own way. Spend time with people who think you matter and try to be true to yourself. If things get too much then talk to someone about it - a close friend, family member you trust, your Personal Adviser or a friendly voice at Connexions Direct. You could even chat online, text or email Connexions Direct if you don't want to pick up the phone.
Finding luuuuurve
There are many ways of expressing your love for someone and everybody has their own set of values and beliefs when it comes to relationships. It’s important to respect other people’s views. Love can give you a great buzz but can also bring heartache - most people who've been in a relationship could tell you this!
If you're thinking about starting sexual relationship stay true to what you want to do and don't let yourself be pressured if you're not ready; after all, you've got your whole life ahead of you! Always make sure you're properly protected against sexual infections or pregnancy - and this means girls and boys! And remember that sex isn’t legal until your 16 - if somebody tries to persuade you to have sex and you’re under 16 they could be prosecuted.
Lonely?
Feeling lonely means feeling miserable. Lots of people feel like this from time to time but that doesn't help much, does it? We all need someone to share our feelings with and to have a laugh with and if you're having trouble getting on with people at school or at home then why not try doing something fun in your spare time where you can meet new people? Check out our volunteering pages for suggestions on what you could do... doing something for other people can make you feel really good about yourself.
Youth Information.com recommends a few books about coping with friendships that you could borrow from your local or school library (go to the 'family and relationships' section and choose 'relationships with friends'). Being a good friend by looking out for others and listening to their worries is a good way of keeping friends.
Useful links:
Friends, family, boyfriends, girlfriends... get advice from Connexions Direct. You could chat online to an adviser if you're worried about anything to do with relationships.
Links to useful websites
