Sometimes, life can put us under pressure. It is important to remember that you are not alone.
Help is available for everyone
Growing up can be tough sometimes. You might find yourself having to cope with lots of different challenges, including exam stress, relationship difficulties, family issues, bullying, depression or anxiety.
Sometimes, life can put us under pressure. You might feel like you find it hard to cope.
You might start acting differently with friends, getting angry quickly, or getting into trouble at school. If this happens often, you might be experiencing a mental health difficulty.
It is important to remember that you are not alone.
First steps
You might feel at first like you do not want to ask for help. You might worry about being judged, or about putting pressure on other people. However, you can get lots of support just by telling someone you are not feeling ok today.
Make a plan
You might find it helpful to first write down what you would like to say and to choose a time and place where you would like to say it.
Don't give up
If a chat doesn't go how you would like it to go, this doesn't mean you should give up. Someone else might be a better listener and more understanding.
Who will I talk to?​
Who do you feel most comfortable talking to? Family and friends can be a great source of support. If you find it hard to talk face-to-face, you could send them a text or write them a letter and give it to them.Â
Sometimes, you might find that your family and friends don’t know how to help, or they might be causing your difficulties. You might like to talk to Childline, or another support service. There are some listed below.
I need urgent help
If you need help in an emergency, you can contact 999 or 112. The Gardai have staff with special training to help people who are in immediate danger, or who need urgent support.Â
Support Services: these are just some of the supports available to children and young people
Visit:Â belongto.org
Call:Â 01 670 2619
BeLonG To provides free youth groups, one-to-one support and advice for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender young people.
Visit:Â pieta.ie
Call:Â 01 623 5606
National Suicide Helpline: 1800 247 247
Pieta is a free support service that provides face-to-face counselling and phone support to people who are thinking about suicide, or who are self-harming.
Visit:Â bodywhys.ie
Call: 1890 200 444
Bodywhys provides phone and online support as well as face-to-face counselling for those affected by eating disorders.
Visit: epiconline.ie
Call: 01 872 7661
EPIC provides information and support for young people in care.
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