If there’s something on your mind, talking to someone about it could be really helpful and make you feel a lot better.
When you keep things to yourself, they can get overwhelming. Don’t carry the world on your shoulders. It’s good to get a different perspective on whatever is troubling you and it helps release some of the tension.
How to make the decision
Deciding who to talk to can be difficult. The most important thing is that it’s someone you trust and who you know will take you seriously.
There are some good questions you can help you figure out the best person to talk to. Think of all the possible people you know and ask yourself:
- Can I trust them?
- Will they give me a hard time?
- Will they make me more upset?
- Will they tell other people?
- Will they be able to help or give the support I need?
Turning to friends
It’s easy to feel like you’re totally alone when trying to managing the stress that comes with life. Friends at school, college etc. may seem like they’re handling everything just fine, while you feel like you’re struggling alone. The news is, you’re not alone!
Most of us have tough times and struggle every now and again. Turning to a close friend about what you’re going through can help make you feel better.
You never know, they may even be going through the same thing. Check out talking to a friend for more information.
Turning to family members
Sometimes you’ll go through things that you just don’t feel comfortable telling a friend about. There are times we just need mum and dad, or our big brother or sister, our super nice aunt, or awesome uncle. Usually our family wants nothing more than to be supportive.
They can help provide insight, and, you never know, could have been through a similar experience when they were your age.
Talking to someone outside the situation
If you run through these questions and decide that it shouldn’t be a family member or a friend that you talk to, that’s OK. Sometimes speaking to someone outside the situation is easier and can really help.
Samaritans Ireland (116 123) are always there to listen, if you would like to talk to someone anonymously.
If you are under 18 years-old, Childline are available to talk to anonymously through phone on 1800 66 66 66 or by texting Talk to 50101.
In the end it is up to you who you talk to. But do remember, when you’re going through a tough time, talking to someone can make a big difference.