LIFE

Hold on, babe. I know it’s trite, but things really do get better. If you need to talk to anyone about anything at all, you can anonymously call a number of different toll-free hotlines: Try 800-SUICIDE of 1-800-273-TALK for the National Suicide Hotline and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, respectively.

Reach out to your friend

Your friend loves you and doesn’t want to lose you. I’d bet she’d do anything she could to help you through this difficult time. If you have not yet leaned on her and told her how you’re feeling, do so now. Remember, even if you think everyone else is against you, you still have this one lifeline…and countless others who would hate to see you in pain. Stay connected to them and know that they need you just as much as you need them.

Ask for help

If you think you can’t trust your parents, or that they won’t help, it’s time to find an adult who can. I know it hurts and it’s hard to trust people you don’t know terribly well, but now’s the time to find faith. Speak to a close family member, a teacher, a guidance counselor, a member of your church or youth group, a coach, even your best friend’s parents. No one wants to see you hurt yourself, so let them help you get the professional help you need.

You’re not alone

Whatever you’re going through, remember that you are never without a support system. Even if you feel like no one cares, somebody is always there watching out for you. Maybe it’s your English teacher who has noticed that you’ve been quiet in class lately, your soccer coach who thinks you look a bit down. Talk to them. They want to help. Even here on girlslife.com, you can find girls whose (virtual) shoulders are there to cry on.

Find a happy place

In the meantime, try to do the things you once loved, whether that’s running through sprinklers or scribbling in your notebook. Throw yourself into activities that will distract you from what’s going on at home or at school. Excelling in something, no matter what that something is, will bring you immeasurable confidence and self-worth.

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