Don't worry, this is a safe space to come and ask questions or simply just vent, I am always around to listen and help when I can.

Hi! It sounds like things at home feel really strained right now, and that kind of tension with a parent can be incredibly upsetting, especially when you used to feel close.

From what you’ve described, you’re feeling hurt, unheard, and quite overwhelmed, which is completely valid. At the same time, it may help to remember that we’re only seeing one side of the situation, your mum might be dealing with her own stress or emotions that she isn’t communicating well. That doesn’t make your feelings any less important, but it can sometimes explain why conversations feel shut down or more reactive than they used to.

If talking face-to-face isn’t working, you could try writing to her or asking another trusted adult, like your dad or a teacher to help create a calmer space where you can both be heard. You deserve to feel listened to, and sometimes changing how the conversation happens can make a real difference.

I’m also really glad you shared how low you’ve been feeling, because that matters so much. Feeling lost in yourself, struggling with big emotions, are signs you need more support, not something to handle alone, and not something to be dismissed. Please try to talk to a trusted adult or reach out to somewhere like Childline (0800 1111) who will take you seriously.

You don’t need to rush coming out either, it’s okay to wait until you feel safe and supported. Be gentle with yourself; you’re figuring a lot out at once, and you’re doing better than you think 💓

Hi, I’m really sorry you’re feeling embarrassed, that’s such a tough situation, especially at school. Please know this isn’t your fault, and what you’re experiencing is completely normal during puberty.

Sometimes parents find it a bit hard to adjust as their child starts growing up, and things like using deodorant or antiperspirant can feel like a “big step” to them. That doesn’t mean she’s being mean, it just might mean she needs a little help understanding how important this feels to you.

Your body is changing right now, and it’s completely normal to sweat more that’s just part of growing up. Wanting to feel fresh and confident, especially around friends, is absolutely valid. Try having a calm, gentle chat with your mum and explain how it’s making you feel at school. You could even mention that lots of your friends use products and how it helps them feel more confident.

Ask your mum if you can try a gentle, sensitive antiperspirant (these are made for younger skin). Let her know this is about feeling clean and confident, not just copying others.

It's also important at your age to keep up good hygiene, daily showers and clean school shirts really help.

💡 Just so you know: a deodorant only covers smell, but an antiperspirant actually helps reduce sweating, which is why it can make a big difference.

Why not read my blog below that covers all aspects of looking after your hygiene as you go through puberty.

Puberty & Intimate Hygiene: A Simple Guide for Girls

Hi, I promise you spots do not make you 'ugly' they are completely normal at your age.

Even if you haven’t started your period yet, your body is already going through early puberty changes, and hormones are the main cause of spots. These hormones make your skin produce more oil, and sometimes that oil can block your pores, which leads to spots and blackheads. It’s actually really common for this to start before your periods begin.

The good news is there are simple ways to help keep your skin happy:
✨ Wash your face gently twice a day
✨ Avoid picking spots (even though it’s tempting!)
✨ Use simple, gentle skincare (you don’t need anything harsh)
✨ Keep hair and hands away from your face as much as possible
✨ Be patient, your skin is adjusting

If you want some easy tips that are made just for your age group, have a look at my blog “Be Skincare Savvy”  it breaks everything down in a really simple, friendly way 💛

And just to remind you again…pretty much everyone your age is dealing with the same thing, even if it doesn’t always seem like it 😊

HI, firstly, try not to worry, from what you’ve described, it is not possible to become pregnant from someone rubbing your back, hips, thighs, or touching your bottom through clothing. Pregnancy can only happen if sperm comes into contact with the vagina, which hasn’t happened in this situation.

That said, if you’re starting to explore being close or intimate with someone, it’s really important to understand that things can sometimes move on quite quickly. Taking things at your own pace and feeling comfortable and in control is what matters most.

I also gently need to mention that in the UK, sexual activity under the age of 16 is considered unlawful, so it’s important to be informed and look after yourself. If you have questions or want advice without any judgement, organisations like Brook or your local sexual health clinic are really supportive and completely confidential, you can ask them anything.

You’ve done the right thing by asking, and it’s always okay to check something you’re unsure about 💛

Hi, I’m so sorry that you’re feeling this unhappy right now, and I’m really glad you reached out, you don’t have to go through this on your own. After what you’ve been through, it’s really important that you speak to someone as soon as possible so you can get the support you deserve.

There is help out there, and it doesn’t automatically mean being hospitalised. The people around you, like your parents, teachers, or another trusted adult are there to care for you and support you, and they will want to help keep you safe and feeling better.

If talking to someone you know feels too difficult right now, you can also reach out confidentially to trained listeners who really understand how you’re feeling. You could contact:Right now, the most important thing is that you’re not alone with these feelings. Please try to reach out to someone today, even if it doesn’t feel easy:

• A parent, relative, or trusted adult
• A teacher or school support staff
• Or a confidential helpline (they won’t judge you)

In the UK, you can contact:

• Childline (under 19s): 0800 1111 or chat online
• Samaritans: 116 123
• Shout (text support): text SHOUT to 85258

You can just say exactly how you said it here “I’m not okay and I need to talk.” That’s enough.

You deserve to feel safe, heard, and supported and there are people who will listen without judgement. Please take that first small step and reach out to someone today 💛

Hi💛 Firstly, it’s completely okay to feel worried about this, starting Year 10 and thinking about mocks is a big step, and lots of people feel unsure about how to revise (especially for subjects like English). Add in dyslexia, and it can feel even more frustrating, but I promise, there are ways to make this easier and more manageable for you.

The biggest mistake people make is thinking they need to sit for hours revising, you really don’t. Try breaking your evenings up into small, realistic chunks. Have a proper dinner (or a healthy snack like fruit or nuts first if you’re revising earlier), then do no more than one hour of revision, focusing on just one topic at a time. After that, give yourself guilt‑free “you time” to relax and wind down before bed, sleep actually helps your brain remember what you’ve learned.

And for English, you’re not alone in finding it tricky, especially with dyslexia, so please talk to your teacher. They can offer support, different ways of learning (like audio, mind maps, or breaking texts down), and help you feel more prepared for exams.

Here's a few gentle tips to help you get started:

• Keep revision short and focused (1 hour max, one topic)
• Try different methods (videos, audio notes, mind maps) to suit how you learn
• Break English work into small chunks - don’t try to do everything at once
• Ask your teacher for dyslexia-friendly support and exam tips
• Reward yourself after revising - motivation grows when it feels manageable

You don’t have to be perfect at this, you just have to start small. You’ve absolutely got this, even if it doesn’t feel like it yet 💛

Hi, what a great question. Now, it might feel like your pubic and underarm hair is growing really fast, but actually it isn’t!

It just looks that way, because hair in those areas is naturally thicker, darker, and more noticeable, so when it grows even a little, you’re much more aware of it.

If you shave, it can also seem like it’s growing back quicker or thicker, but that’s just because the hair has been cut bluntly at the skin’s surface, which makes regrowth feel stubbly.

Things to remember:

• Hair in these areas looks faster because it’s thicker and darker
• It doesn’t actually grow quicker than other body hair
• Shaving can make it feel stubbly, not thicker
• Puberty hormones increase overall hair growth
• Everyone’s growth pattern is slightly different

This is all totally normal, especially during puberty when your body is changing and new hair growth starts to happen. 💛

Okay, I totally understand how all of the news bulletins have mad this sound scary, but it really isn’t something to stress about right now 💛

What’s being talked about is a potential new law the government is looking into that would help protect under 16s from unsuitable or harmful content on social media.

This is important:

• Nothing has actually been finalised yet.
• There are no confirmed rules or changes in place right now.

At the moment, it’s just discussions and proposals. It could take months (or even longer) before anything is decided and even then, we’ll get clear guidance on what it actually means for everyone.

So for now try not to worry, no accounts are being suddenly removed, no immediate changes are happening and there is nothing you need to do.

The best thing to do is wait and see how things develop over the coming months. When or if anything becomes official, it’ll be explained properly so everyone knows exactly where they stand.

You’re not about to lose everything overnight... promise💛

Hi 💛 firstly, everything you’ve described (the nervous laughing, the crying, struggling to speak when emotions take over) is so common at your age, especially with parents, because those are the situations where feelings run strongest.

Let's break down your concerns one by one:

🌼 About the laughing and smirking
That nervous giggle thing? It’s actually your brain getting overwhelmed and not knowing how to react, it’s not you being disrespectful. It happens a lot during puberty when your emotional and thinking parts of your brain are still learning how to work together. It will get easier over time. A little trick that helps in the moment:

• press your tongue to the roof of your mouth
• slow your breathing (in for 4, out for 6)
• focus on keeping your face relaxed

These may sound like small things, but they can really steady you.

💧 About crying so easily
Crying isn’t immaturity, it’s your body releasing stress. The reason it happens more with your dad is probably because that’s where you feel the most pressure or intensity. When you feel it building:

• try saying “I need a minute” and step away if you can. Being able to pause instead of pushing through tears? That’s actually maturity.
• write down what you wanted to say afterwards (this really helps you feel heard, even if you couldn’t say it in the moment)
• recognising your emotions instead of fighting them💛

💄 And about the makeup
This one’s tricky, I know. Sometimes parents react strongly because makeup feels like a sign their child is growing up, and that can be hard for them. It’s not really about the blush, it’s about them adjusting. So, a good middle ground might be:

• keeping it light and natural (like you’re already doing)
• showing him what you’re wearing so it doesn’t feel like a “shock”
• maybe agreeing on when/where it’s okay (like weekends or holidays)

🫶 My final little reminder
You are not too emotional, too childish, or doing anything wrong. You’re learning how to handle big feelings in real time, which is one of the hardest parts of growing up. Give yourself a bit more kindness, you're doing better than you think 💛 

Your friend really does have a strange sense of humour, and you have a choice - you either accept this and try not to let it get to you, or do as we have discussed previously and just distance yourself from her slowly. Yes, your dad has a point there really is no need to have a massive fall out, but your feelings are valid and if she makes you sad, angry or uncomfortable it's best to let this friendship run its course.

Hi 💛 yes, it’s completely normal not to have your period at 13—there’s a really wide range of when it can start, usually anywhere between about 8 and 16 (and sometimes even a little later), so you are absolutely still within a healthy, normal timeline.

It's a bit of a myth that our periods start at the same time as family members, so even though your mum got hers around 13–14, it doesn’t mean your body will follow the same pattern because everyone develops differently and at their own pace. Your period will come when your body is ready, and that timing is unique to you, so try not to compare yourself to others, there’s nothing wrong with you at all, you’re just on your own path 💛

Hi 💛 yes, that soft light hair you’re noticing is completely normal, lots of people have it, it’s often called “peach fuzz,” and during puberty it can seem more noticeable because your hormones are changing. It doesn’t mean anything is wrong, and for most people it either settles down or just becomes something you stop noticing over time.

I know it can feel a bit embarrassing, especially if you think you’re the only one, but you really aren’t, bodies grow and change differently for everyone. If it ever really knocks your confidence there are gentle ways to manage it, but honestly, it’s such a normal part of growing up and nothing to be ashamed of at all 💛

Hi 💛 it’s completely normal to feel like this, especially when it seems like everyone around you is developing faster, but honestly, there is no set timeline your body has to follow.

Breast development can be influenced by your own unique puberty journey, your genetics on both sides of your family, and your natural body shape, so comparing yourself to friends won’t give you the full picture. At 14, it’s still very early and things can change more than you expect over the next few years, so try not to worry that this is how things will always be.

In the meantime, if your bra feels too big, you might feel much more comfortable in a soft crop top or bralette instead of focusing on cup sizes, because sizing is only ever a guide anyway. And just remember, having a bigger bust isn’t “better,” it doesn’t make someone more grown-up or more confident, and it definitely doesn’t define who you are, you’re already enough exactly as you are 💛

Hi, you don’t have to wear pantyliners if you have discharge it’s totally up to what feels comfortable for you 💛 discharge is a normal, healthy part of your body, so if it’s light and not bothering you, just changing your underwear daily is absolutely fine, but if it ever feels a bit damp, noticeable, or you just want extra confidence during the day, panty liners can be really handy they’re just there to make you feel more comfortable, not something you’re required to use, so honestly it’s all about what makes you feel best and most at ease 😊

Hi! First of all, I’m really glad you asked this question, that takes courage, even if it feels “mild” to you. And just so you know, your feelings are valid no matter how big or small they seem.

Puberty can feel like a total emotional rollercoaster 🎢 hormones, school pressure, friendships, expectations… it can all pile up and leave you feeling stressed or low. But even if hormones play a part, that doesn’t make it any less real or important. So, let’s break this down in a way that actually helps you 💭

💛 You can’t “switch off” anxiety—but you can manage it. Anxiety is your brain trying to protect you, even if it’s overreacting a bit. Instead of trying to stop it completely, try to calm it down:

•  Breathe slowly – in for 4 seconds, out for 6 (this really does help your body settle)
• Ground yourself – name 5 things you can see, 4 you can touch, 3 you can hear
• Take little breaks from social media if it’s overwhelming you

🌱 For those low days - when you feel a bit down, even simple things can help shift your mood:

• Write things down, thoughts, worries, even random feelings
• Get outside, even for 10 minutes
• Listen to music that matches your mood first, then slowly lift it
• Do one small thing (homework, tidying, texting a friend) because small wins matter

🧡 Please don’t deal with this alone - You deserve support, always. Talking to someone you trust can make a huge difference, even if it feels awkward at first:

• a parent or family member
• a friend
• a teacher or school staff member

You don’t have to have the “perfect words” even just “I’ve not been feeling great lately” is enough to start.

So many teens feel exactly like this at times and it can get better with support and small steps. You’re doing really well just by expressing this. I’m proud of you 💛
Always here when you need to talk xx

First of all, please don’t apologise, you’ve got a lot going on right now, and it makes sense it’s all weighing on you. That feeling of “why is everyone else already on summer?” is so real, especially when you’re reading sites like Girls’ Life.

But those web pages are designed to look upbeat and perfect, they’re basically a highlight reel, not real life. You’re in the final stretch with exams, not the relaxing part yet and that doesn’t mean your summer is worse, just that it’s starting a little later.

About your period - what you’re experiencing is actually really normal. Stress (like exams), being unwell, and changes to your routine can all delay it, so a longer cycle this month isn’t unusual. It might show up during exams (annoying timing, I know), but you can handle that, just be a bit prepared so it doesn’t catch you off guard.

And as for your summer? 57 days might feel shorter, but it’s still a solid break, plus you’ve got Malaysia in August, which is something genuinely exciting to look forward to. Your timeline is just different, not worse.

When you do get into your summer, you could try:

• Planning a few low-pressure meetups or chill days with friends
• Starting a small project (writing, drawing, journaling, or even a reading list)
• Giving your room a refresh or sorting through clothes for a little reset
• Making a mini “summer wishlist” so you’ve got things to look forward to
• Letting yourself properly relax after exams without feeling guilty

You’re doing exactly what you need to be doing right now, even if it doesn’t feel fun yet. This part is temporary and your break is coming. You’ve got this ✨

Hi💛 firstly, try not to worry, you’re definitely not alone in this. Even a couple of years after your first period, it’s really common for cycles to become irregular again, especially during your early to mid‑teens. That’s because your body is still growing and developing, periods you see...aren’t the end of puberty, so hormones can still fluctuate quite a bit. Things like an 81‑day gap or your period being late by 10 days can happen at this stage, and while it feels worrying, it’s usually still within the range of normal.

The changes you’ve noticed with your skin are very likely linked to those same hormones too, so breakouts can happen even if you’ve never had them before. It can help to keep pads or tampons with you so you’re not caught out, and even wearing a pantyliner can give you a bit of peace of mind. That said, if your cycles stay very irregular for a long time, or periods are regularly very long or heavy, it’s always okay to check in with a doctor just for reassurance. But from your msg, it seems like your body is still figuring things out, and it will settle over time 💛

This is really is unpleasant and unfortunately very common, even though it doesn’t make it any easier to deal with 💛 Many girls and women get cramps in the days before their period starts because the muscles around the uterus begin to contract. It’s uncomfortable, but there are ways to ease it a bit. One helpful thing is gentle movement...I know it’s probably the last thing you feel like doing, but walking around, stretching, or even a little dance at home can actually relax those muscles and reduce the pain.

You can also try using a hot water bottle or heat pack, which can be really soothing, and make sure you’re keeping hydrated. The main thing is to be kind to yourself, rest when you need to, but don’t be afraid to move a little too. Over time, you’ll find what works best for your body 💛

This is such a tricky situation, and it makes total sense you feel stressed 💛 On one hand, you shouldn’t have to invite someone who has been unkind to you, and your feelings about that are completely valid. At the same time, I can see your mum is trying to keep things calm and prevent the situation from escalating, especially since the invitation has already been given. She’s also thinking about kindness and how it feels to be excluded, even though, like you said, the situation isn’t exactly the same.

Because she’s already invited, it might be best just for this one time to still include her, especially if your parents will be there and things will feel more controlled. Then, going forward, you can gently create distance, be civil like your mum said, but not close and that way it won’t feel like a big or sudden thing if she’s not invited to future events.

Most importantly, your birthday should still feel like your day, so focus on the people who do make you feel happy and safe 💛