Hi, please know this first: what you’re feeling is very, very normal. That clammy, shaky feeling isn’t weakness, it’s your body’s natural alarm system kicking in when something feels stressful or unfamiliar. Exams feel such high‑stakes, so your body goes into fight‑or‑flight mode (hello sweaty palms, racing heart, foggy brain). The good news is: this response is common, temporary, and manageable. It does not mean you can’t cope, even if it feels unbearable in the moment.

A few things that really do help. Keep revision small and steady, even 20–30 minutes a night on one topic is enough to tell your brain “I’m prepared”, which lowers anxiety. Try to protect your sleep and eat regularly (your brain works so much better with fuel). The night before, do practical prep to calm your mind: lay out your uniform, pack your bag, charge devices, put notes away, this signals safety and readiness. On exam day, if panic hits, slow your breathing: in for 4, hold for 4, out for 6, repeat, it physically calms your nervous system. And please remember: mocks do not define you. They are practice, not a judgement on your worth or future. You are allowed to find this hard and still get through it, and you will. 

Substance addiction isn’t a mark of moral failure or shame. It’s widely understood as a health condition, influenced by a mix of biology, brain chemistry, trauma, mental health, environment, and access to support. People don’t become addicted because they’re “bad”; they become addicted because something; pain, stress, illness, genetics, circumstances made a substance temporarily feel like relief, and the brain learned to rely on it.

Framing addiction as a moral flaw does real harm. It increases stigma, makes people less likely to ask for help, and ignores the reality that recovery is about support, treatment, and compassion, not punishment or judgment. You wouldn’t call someone morally weak for having asthma or depression, addiction deserves the same understanding.

So you’re right to feel unsettled by that comment. It says far more about the speaker’s lack of understanding than about people struggling with addiction. Compassion isn’t softness; it’s accuracy.

Crushes really can be lovely and dizzying, unsettling, all‑consuming at the same time. What you’re describing is incredibly common, especially when a crush is tied up with nostalgia, safety, and unfinished feelings. This boy isn’t just a person you like, he represents a time when you felt secure, known, and connected. Seeing him again stirred all of that back up, and your mind is now racing to fill in gaps, rewrite memories, and imagine what might have been. That doesn’t mean you’re delusional, dramatic, or silly, it means your feelings are doing what feelings do when they don’t have closure. And low self‑esteem can make this louder, whispering that you’re invisible or unlovable, even though there’s no real evidence for that at all.

This may not be what you want to hear, but the kindest advice right now is to ground yourself in everyday life. Keep seeing friends, plan things with family, stay busy, and gently redirect your thoughts when they spiral into “what ifs.” Fantasy and replaying moments will only fuel your anxiety and make the feeling feel bigger than it needs to be. If your brother and he reconnect and he naturally comes back into your life, you can cross that bridge then, with real interactions rather than imagined ones. Until that happens, try to let the scenarios go, they’re understandable, but they’re not very helpful. You don’t need to act, confess, or decide anything right now. Feelings don’t mean instructions. Sometimes the bravest thing is letting life unfold at its own pace and trusting that, in time, clarity will come without you forcing it.

First, take a breath...there is nothing wrong with you. Attraction isn’t a single switch that flips on or off, and it’s not a moral failing if it doesn’t line up neatly. For most people, attraction has more than one layer: emotional, intellectual, and physical. Emotional chemistry can be powerful and real all on its own, and physical attraction is often one of the first things that sparks romantic feelings, but it doesn’t always follow, and it doesn’t have to. Not feeling that physical pull doesn’t make you vain, it just means your feelings are more nuanced than a fairytale narrative suggests. You clearly care deeply about M, you admire her, you’re drawn to who she is and that matters, and it’s genuine, even if it isn’t romantic in the way people expect.

For now, the kindest thing, to her and to yourself is exactly what you’re already doing: staying close friends without forcing a label or a decision. You don’t need to figure out the future right now, and you don’t need to put pressure on feelings to become something they’re not ready to be. Life has a way of letting relationships evolve naturally if they’re meant to, without being pushed or over-analysed. Enjoy the connection you have, protect it, and trust yourself enough to know that if something changes, you’ll handle it with care. And if nothing changes? That doesn’t mean anything was missing it just means what you shared was real in the way it was meant to be.

It’s completely normal to worry about family health, especially when information feels unclear or emotionally loaded. When people in your family are dealing with diagnoses or health worries, they’re often processing fear, grief, or uncertainty themselves, and sometimes that means they don’t communicate well. That doesn’t mean you’re being excluded on purpose or that something terrible is being hidden from you. Part of growing independence is learning to trust that the adults around you are managing their own health and emotions in the best way they can, even when it doesn’t feel reassuring from the outside. Their journey with their health doesn’t automatically become your burden to carry.

As for moving away, it’s okay if this doesn’t feel exciting yet. Big changes can stir up anger and resistance before they bring growth. Try gently shifting your focus from everything that might happen to what is actually in front of you each day: new routines, small freedoms, moments of enjoyment, ordinary life unfolding. Living fully doesn’t mean pretending nothing bad could ever happen; it means choosing not to let fear shrink your world. This next chapter is about learning what you enjoy, what steadies you, and how to build a life that feels meaningful day by day and that sense of security can grow, slowly and quietly, as you do.

Hi Suri,  I’m really glad you spoke up about this. Feeling constantly tired but unable to sleep, using humour to cover what’s hurting, and feeling like you don’t want to deal with anything anymore are all signs that you’re under a lot of strain, not that you’re weak or failing. When thoughts like this show up, it usually means you want the pain to stop. What you’re feeling matters, and it deserves care and support beyond carrying it on your own or only venting anonymously.

If telling your parents feels impossible right now, a school counsellor really is a good next step. It’s true they may need to involve your parents if they’re worried about your safety, but that would be done with kindness and to protect you, not to get you in trouble and often they help explain things so you’re not doing it alone. Because you’ve said these thoughts have been coming up a lot, reaching out for immediate support is important too: in the UK you can call Samaritans on 116 123 any time, text SHOUT to 85258 for 24/7 support, or if you’re under 19, Childline on 0800 1111. You don’t have to explain everything perfectly “I’m not okay and I need help” is enough. 

Hi! Feeling like you don’t want to carry on with GCSE Dance can be really upsetting, especially in Year 10 when the pressure starts to ramp up. Exam time is stressful, and it’s completely normal to doubt yourself, particularly when you’re being asked to create your own choreography, which can feel overwhelming.

 to remember that your teacher wouldn’t have entered you for the course if they didn’t believe in you. They’ve likely seen your potential, even if you can’t see it right now. It might really help to share how you’re feeling and ask for some guidance or choreography ideas. Teachers are there to support you, not judge you, and a few tips or a fresh perspective could make a huge difference.

You don’t have to figure everything out on your own, feeling stuck doesn’t mean you can’t do it, it just means you need a bit of help right now.

Hi, it’s completely understandable to feel this way. Society still pushes the idea that university is the “right” or “successful” path, so when someone steps away from it, it can feel like judgment is everywhere, even when people don’t mean it. 

But the truth is, deciding to leave university often takes more self-awareness and courage than staying out of fear. You listened to yourself. You weighed up the pros and cons, reflected honestly on how it was affecting you, and made a choice that felt right for your life. That matters.

So many people start university believing it’s the only option, only to discover that it doesn’t suit how they learn, live, or thrive. That doesn’t make them less capable or less ambitious, it simply means their path looks different. And different isn’t wrong.

Try to remind yourself that the people worth listening to are the ones who respect your instincts and your wellbeing. You don’t owe anyone an explanation that diminishes your experience. Trusting your gut doesn’t always come with instant validation, but it often leads to long-term peace and that’s no small thing.

Hi, so many first‑year students don’t find “their people” in Freshers or first term, even though it can seem like everyone else has. Having friends from different parts of your life rather than one solid group doesn’t mean you’re doing uni wrong, it just means your connections haven’t merged yet, and that can take time. Try not to put pressure on yourself to magically have a close-knit group by now; strong friendships usually grow slowly, through repeated, low‑pressure time together.

If you want to build things a bit more, focus on depth over numbers. Pick one or two people you already get on with and suggest something small outside the uni day, a coffee, a walk, studying together, a film night. Lots of people are quietly waiting for someone else to make the first move. Joining societies or clubs now (not just in first term) is still a really good way to meet like‑minded people, especially smaller or more niche ones where conversations come more naturally.

As for housing, you absolutely still have options, many students don’t have arrangements sorted yet. Try asking your uni accommodation or student union if they have noticeboards or advisors for house‑sharing, check platforms like SpareRoom, or look for unofficial group chats set up by accommodation blocks or courses.

Uni friendships aren’t a race, and you’re doing exactly what you should be doing by reaching out and asking for support. 

Hi, I’m really sorry you had such a frightening accident, a swing snapping like that is a huge shock, and ending up with several broken bones and a head injury is a lot for anyone to handle. It sounds like your friends did everything they could to help you, and you’re in the right place now where doctors can make sure you heal properly. It’s completely normal to feel upset, stressed or overwhelmed after something so sudden and painful.

About your residential trip, it’s understandable that you’re worried, especially because you were excited about the zip line. With injuries like a broken leg, ankle and arm, you probably won’t be able to join in with the big activities, and the decision about whether you can go at all will depend on what your parents, the school and your doctors think is safe. Whatever they decide, it won’t be because you’ve done anything wrong, it’s just about making sure you’re properly looked after and not pushed into something painful or unsafe.

Easter eggs are literally designed to be super yummy and tempting. Honestly, if one showed up early in my house, I’d struggle too and I’ve got seven sitting in my kitchen right now waiting to be given as gifts. The urge to crack one open is real, trust me.

But listen:
You had one moment where you enjoyed something tasty. That doesn’t make you “bad”, it doesn’t mean anything is ruined, and it definitely won’t affect your health. It just means you’re human.

Feeling guilty doesn’t do anything except make you feel worse, and you absolutely don’t deserve that. Be kind to yourself, you enjoyed an Easter egg a bit earlier than planned, life goes on, and everyone will totally understand.

Hi, firstly I am sorry you are feeling this way, feeling jealous of other women’s bodies can be really painful, and it often feels like you’re the only one struggling with those thoughts, but you’re genuinely not. So many people compare themselves to others, even the ones you’d never expect. The women you look at and see as “perfect” almost definitely have days where they dislike their stomach, their thighs, their skin, or their chest. A lot of this comes from the pressure social media and society put on us to look a very specific way, a way that most bodies simply don’t look without filters, posing, editing, or genetics.

What you described, liking certain parts of your body but feeling frustrated by others is incredibly normal, especially during puberty and young adulthood when bodies are still changing. A tummy that feels fuller or softer is actually a totally common part of growing into an adult body, and it doesn’t make you any less feminine. And with breasts, there isn’t a single definition of “better” or “more womanly.” Petite breasts, average breasts, full breasts, they are all normal and they all belong on real women. You don’t need to match a certain shape to be attractive or valid.

Something that can genuinely help is focusing on dressing in ways that make you feel good, rather than trying to chase an ideal that doesn’t exist. Clothes that fit your shape, flatter the parts you love, and feel comfortable can change how you see yourself far more than most people expect. And taking breaks from social media, even short ones, can really reduce the constant comparison that fuels jealousy. Your body deserves kindness and respect, even on days when you don’t fully believe it.

Hi, and thanks for reaching out. What you’re feeling is completely valid, when you’re healing from something painful, it’s totally normal to be more aware of how people might be looking at you. Scars connected to emotional struggles can feel especially personal, so even a neutral glance can feel uncomfortable or loaded. Sometimes people stare simply because they notice something different, not because they’re judging you, but I get how it can still feel intrusive or objectifying. And even if someone is being rude, that’s a reflection of their lack of understanding, not anything about you. Your scars are not embarrassing, they’re a sign that you’ve been through hard things and are still moving forward, and that’s nothing to be ashamed of.

It also makes sense that neither of you wants to confront strangers; and you absolutely don’t owe anyone explanations! No confrontation if required. Some people find comfort in light layers or accessories, not to hide anything, but to feel more in control while they build confidence. Most importantly, your scars don’t define you. You deserve to exist in public spaces without feeling like you need to shrink yourself or apologise for surviving.

Hi, it makes sense that being called out publicly as a whole class felt really uncomfortable. Situations like that can feel unfair, embarrassing, or just plain stressful, especially when it wasn’t you who did anything wrong. Being spoken to in front of everyone about something so personal would make any group feel tense. You’re allowed to feel unsettled by the way it was handled.

What you can hold onto is this: how your teacher reacted in the moment doesn’t mean she’ll always handle things that way. Teachers are human, they sometimes react quickly when they’re shocked or frustrated, and later realise it could’ve been handled more sensitively. Hopefully, if anything like this ever happens again, she’ll choose a calmer and more respectful way to talk about it. If you’re still bothered, you can always speak privately to a trusted teacher or adult in school, not to complain, but to say the situation made you uncomfortable. 

Hi, I appreciate that this must have felt a little strange, but it actually shows how much your parents care for one another which is a lovely thing!!!

Maybe in future pop some earbuds in, or make a few noises in your room so they know you are around. and if you feel brave enough let them know that they can be heard, I am sure they had not realised this and will want to be sensitive to your feelings.

It isn’t actually shameful to cry in public, some people just think it is because they worry about looking “too emotional” or “too much.” But honestly, showing your feelings takes courage, and it’s something no one should be embarrassed about. Crying is just your body’s way of releasing pressure, the same way laughing lets out happiness.

Who decides it’s shameful anyway? Crying is a normal human reaction, and everyone does it. Being able to express how you feel, whether you’re at home, at school, or out and about is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Hi, having an IDP or needing things like a time‑out card can make you feel like everyone is watching you, even when they're not. What you’re experiencing with your emotions getting stronger again is actually really common in Year Six. There’s a lot changing at once, both inside and around you, so feelings that used to be easier to manage can suddenly feel bigger again.

Sometimes when people don’t understand something, like an IDP or why someone needs extra support, they fill the gaps with guesses. That’s why it can really help if your teacher or school explains what an IDP is in a simple, kind way to your classmates, not singling you out, just helping everyone understand that people learn and feel things differently, and that’s totally okay. When people understand more, they judge less.

You’re not weird, and you’re definitely not alone. You’re someone who is learning how to cope with strong feelings, and that’s something to be proud of. 

Hi, firstly it’s completely normal for teens to have days where energy is low and everything feels harder than it should be. School, growing, hormones, and everyday stress can make you feel exhausted, foggy, or like you just need to collapse when you get home. Lots of people your age experience that, and it doesn’t mean anything is “wrong” with you, it just means your body and brain are doing a lot at once.

But when low energy mixes with thoughts that feel scary, overwhelming, or too big to handle alone, that’s when it’s really important to talk to an adult you trust, your mum, dad, a teacher, or a counsellor. You don’t need to explain everything perfectly, just something as simple as, “I’ve been feeling really low lately and I need some help,” is more than enough. You deserve proper support, and you don’t have to carry any of it by yourself.

If you ever feel unsafe or overwhelmed, please reach out right away to someone who can help you: Samaritans (UK) at 116 123 or text SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential support. You’re not alone in this, there are people who will listen, help, and make sure you’re supported every step of the way

Hi, this is a great question and one I did write a blog on, when on our old website, so maybe it's time to repost it!!

Lots of teens, including those with autism, find tidying their room really hard, especially when motivation is low. A good first step is to agree with your parents what “tidy” actually means, so you’re not trying to guess. Keeping things simple helps too: choose two or three small tasks you can do each day, like picking clothes off the floor or putting rubbish in the bin.

You can also make things easier by using storage boxes, keeping school bits in one place, and giving your room a quick clean once a week. Little steps really do add up. And remember, this isn’t about being “good” or “bad” it’s just about finding a routine that works for you. 

Hi, it’s completely understandable that overhearing things about your mum’s job has made you feel unsettled, when adults talk about work stuff, especially things like pay cuts or companies closing, it can make everything feel a bit uncertain. Those feelings are normal, and you’re not overreacting by worrying about what might happen.

The best thing you can do is gently talk to your mum about it. Let her know you’ve heard bits and it’s been playing on your mind. She’ll be able to reassure you and explain things in a way that feels less scary, and she’ll probably be more mindful about discussing work when you’re around. You deserve to feel safe and informed, and talking about it is the easiest way to take that worry off your shoulders.