Free bleeding is when you do not use any products to help manage our flow and allow period blood to be released freely.

Here’s the thing about your teenage years; school, friends, and wanting to fit in can feel super important, and then puberty comes along and shakes up your confidence. It’s very normal to feel like you’re not good enough sometimes. Lots of girls compare themselves to friends or people they see on social media and TV, but the truth is, most of us have our own confidence struggles and you’re definitely not alone in feeling this way.

My tip is to find something you like about yourself it could be your smile, your kindness, or even how good you are at a hobby and remind yourself of that every morning. A little pep talk can make a big difference over time. Confidence grows slowly, but it starts with appreciating the amazing things that make you, YOU!

I really understand how much you want to start horse riding, especially because it feels calming for you. It sounds like you’ve put a lot of thought into answering your parents’ concerns, which shows how responsible you are. But right now, the most important thing is to talk to your parents about how you’ve been feeling anxious. They care about you and can help you get the right support. Once they understand how important this is for your mental health, you can explain why you think horse riding might help and even share research or articles that show the benefits of being around animals.

If lessons aren’t possible right now, you could look for other ways to spend time with horses. For example, contact a local riding stable and ask if they need volunteers to help with grooming or yard work, many stables welcome extra hands.

You could also make a simple schedule to show your parents how you’ll balance homework, relaxation, and time at the stables. This shows you’re thinking ahead and being responsible. Even if it takes time, there are ways to work toward your goal while also taking care of your mental health.

If you’re feeling really happy now but worried about falling into a deep sadness later, that’s a lot to carry and it’s okay to ask for help.

If you ever feel like you might hurt yourself or can’t cope, please reach out straight away. You can call emergency services or a helpline like Samaritans (116 123 in the UK). Talking to someone you trust a parent, friend, or teacher can make a big difference too, you don’t have to go through this alone.

These ups and downs can feel scary, but they’re something you can get help with. A mental health professional can work with you to understand what’s happening and find ways to manage it. While you’re feeling good, try writing down things that help you feel safe and calm, so you have them ready for harder times. You could also make a “safety plan” with phone numbers and coping ideas.

And you can always come back here and chat to me.

Puberty can be tough on both teens and parents, you’re adjusting to new emotions, and your parents are learning how to give you more independence while still guiding you. That’s a big change for everyone, so tension can happen.

When things are calm, try sending your dad a short text or writing a note. Let him know you’re struggling with mood swings but really trying to manage them better. Ask if he can give you some space when things feel tense. You could also try the “10-second rule”, pause and take a few deep breaths before responding. It helps you stay calmer and gives both of you a chance to cool down.

Sometimes the best way to help someone who’s grieving is simply to be there and listen. You don’t need perfect words, just letting them talk or cry can mean a lot. You can say things like, “I’m here if you want to talk” or “You don’t have to go through this alone.”

Sharing something comforting, like chocolate or a quiet space, shows you care without needing big speeches. Avoid trying to “fix” their feelings or rushing them to feel better grief takes time, and everyone handles it differently.

Another way to support someone is by encouraging happy memories of the person they’ve lost. Ask gentle questions like, “What’s your favourite memory with them?” or “What always made you laugh about them?” This helps keep their memory alive in a positive way. And remember, support doesn’t stop after the first few days, sending a simple message like “Thinking of you today” weeks later can mean a lot. 

Feeling a little nervous about going out to meet friends on your own for the first time is completely normal. It just means you’re aware of your surroundings, which is actually a good thing.

You could make it easier by planning ahead, like knowing exactly where you’re meeting, keeping your phone charged, and maybe letting someone at home know your plans. Once you get there and start having fun, those nerves usually fade away.

What a lovely relationship you have with your grandparents! Even if you can’t spend Christmas Day together, you can still make it special.

Why not plan something a few days before like going for a walk, sharing a meal, watching a favourite movie, or even baking together? These little moments create happy memories that last, and remember, Christmas doesn’t have to be celebrated only on the 25th.

Homework stress is really common, especially when you’re juggling school and all the changes that come with puberty. That’s why I’ve written a few blogs on this topic!

My top tip is to break your evening into three sections:
Study time – about an hour, and no more.
Active time – go for a walk, dance, or do something that lifts your mood.
Relax time – at least an hour before bed with no electronic devices.

This routine helps keep your mind fresh and reduces stress.

Naming your emotional support stuffed animal is such a personal and special thing! A good way to start is by thinking about things that mean a lot to you like:

• Colours you love (e.g., “Indigo” or “Sky”)
• Favourite foods or treats (e.g., “Mocha” or “Berry”)
• Play on words related to what the animal is (e.g., if it’s a bear, “Snuggles” or “Honey”)
• Characters or places you like (maybe from shows, books, or games)

Write down a few ideas and see which one feels right. Sometimes the perfect name just “clicks” when you say it out loud!

You know what? If Bluey comes on while I’m scrolling through TV, I’d probably watch it too!

There’s nothing wrong with liking something from when you were younger especially if it makes you feel calm and happy. Lots of people have comfort shows or hobbies, and that’s totally okay.

That said, it can also be fun to try new things now and then. You might find other shows or activities you enjoy, and over time you’ll probably outgrow Bluey naturally without even trying.

But for now, if it helps you feel less anxious and gives you something you love, that’s a good thing.

It’s completely normal to enjoy someone’s company and feel a bit sad when they leave, especially if you’ve had a great time together. Missing people we like spending time with is a sign that those moments matter to us, and that’s okay.

Sometimes, when you usually do fun activities like shopping and then have a quieter day, it can feel different or less exciting, but that doesn’t mean the time wasn’t valuable. It’s also natural to feel attached to people you connect with.

One healthy thing to remember is that while it’s lovely to have someone you look forward to seeing, it’s also good to make space for other friendships and activities.

Having more than one person to spend time with can make the week feel less empty. And learning to enjoy your own company, whether through hobbies, creative projects, or relaxing activities can help you feel happier between visits.

As for messaging or calling, I can’t say if that’s a good idea because I don’t know why you only meet once a week for two hours. If this is part of a professional arrangement, your friend might not be able to spend extra time or it might not be appropriate to chat outside those hours. If it’s a personal friendship, then sending a friendly message during the week could be fine but only if it feels comfortable for both of you.

You’re doing nothing wrong by caring about someone and missing them. It just means you value the connection.