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Cooped up and locked down, lots of us have clocked up some serious hours online. Jade Laurice and her friend KB share tips on how to avoid getting stressed from your socials and what else they do to feel good.

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Get support

If you're struggling with your mental health, or you're worried about one of your friends, there are lots of organisations and charities that offer help specifically for young people.

Support from charities

The Mix has a free, confidential telephone helpline and online service that aims to find you the best help, whatever the problem.

Shout 85258 provides free, confidential, 24/7 text message support in the UK for anyone struggling to cope. They can help with issues including suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, abuse, self-harm, relationship problems and bullying. Text "Shout" to 85258 to speak to an empathetic, trained volunteer who will listen and work with you to solve problems.

If you're under 19, you can also call 0800 1111 to talk to Childline. The number will not appear on your phone bill

Support from the NHS

You can find more information about NHS children and young people's mental health services (CYPMHS) on the NHS website. You can also look at your local Clinical Commissioning Group website.

Alternatively, most services also have their own website with information about access, referrals (including whether you can "self-refer") and contact details - try searching in your area for "CYPMHS" or "CAMHS" (children and adolescent mental health services, an older term used for some CYPMHS).

You can also talk to an adult you trust - for example a parent, carer, teacher, social worker or GP - and they can look into this for you.

Struggling with student life

On top of all the usual thoughts, feelings and worries that are part and parcel of student life, the changes brought about because of COVID-19 - and the possibilities of a lack of face-to-face learning and needing to self-isolate due to outbreaks at uni - mean there's lots going on right now that might be tough to deal with.

It's a totally natural reaction to a difficult situation, and there's plenty of help available if you think you or someone you know needs it.

Find out more about student life during COVID-19 and where to get support:

Help for problems during coronavirus (COVID-19)

Some of us have faced really hard times recently. It can feel like no one can help, but there are lots of organisations out there to support you through:

Barnardo's has also set up the See, Hear, Respond support hub - a dedicated service to help children, young people and their families or carers with problems caused by the COVID-19 outbreak.

Support for different groups

There are lots of organisations and networks who provide advice and support for specific groups. It can help to connect with other young people and supporters who understand where you are coming from:

If you have learning disabilities or you are autistic, this may have been an especially difficult time for you. Here are some resources that might be useful:

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Self-care tips videos for young people - Every Mind Matters

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Get support If you're struggling with your mental health, or you're worried about one of your friends, there are lots of organisations and charities that offer help specifically for young people. The Mix has a free, confidential telephone helpline and online service that aims to find you the best help, whatever the problem.

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Sometimes we feel totally fine and in control when things change, but at others we end up getting worked up and stressed out. Super Sam and Helen share some tips, tech and advice to help you chill and de-stress.

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Get support

If you're struggling with your mental health, or you're worried about one of your friends, there are lots of organisations and charities that offer help specifically for young people.

Support from charities

The Mix has a free, confidential telephone helpline and online service that aims to find you the best help, whatever the problem.

Shout 85258 provides free, confidential, 24/7 text message support in the UK for anyone struggling to cope. They can help with issues including suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, abuse, self-harm, relationship problems and bullying. Text "Shout" to 85258 to speak to an empathetic, trained volunteer who will listen and work with you to solve problems.

If you're under 19, you can also call 0800 1111 to talk to Childline. The number will not appear on your phone bill

Support from the NHS

You can find more information about NHS children and young people's mental health services (CYPMHS) on the NHS website. You can also look at your local Clinical Commissioning Group website.

Alternatively, most services also have their own website with information about access, referrals (including whether you can "self-refer") and contact details - try searching in your area for "CYPMHS" or "CAMHS" (children and adolescent mental health services, an older term used for some CYPMHS).

You can also talk to an adult you trust - for example a parent, carer, teacher, social worker or GP - and they can look into this for you.

Struggling with student life

On top of all the usual thoughts, feelings and worries that are part and parcel of student life, the changes brought about because of COVID-19 - and the possibilities of a lack of face-to-face learning and needing to self-isolate due to outbreaks at uni - mean there's lots going on right now that might be tough to deal with.

It's a totally natural reaction to a difficult situation, and there's plenty of help available if you think you or someone you know needs it.

Find out more about student life during COVID-19 and where to get support:

Help for problems during coronavirus (COVID-19)

Some of us have faced really hard times recently. It can feel like no one can help, but there are lots of organisations out there to support you through:

Barnardo's has also set up the See, Hear, Respond support hub - a dedicated service to help children, young people and their families or carers with problems caused by the COVID-19 outbreak.

Support for different groups

There are lots of organisations and networks who provide advice and support for specific groups. It can help to connect with other young people and supporters who understand where you are coming from:

If you have learning disabilities or you are autistic, this may have been an especially difficult time for you. Here are some resources that might be useful:

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Self-care tips videos for young people - Every Mind Matters

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Get support If you're struggling with your mental health, or you're worried about one of your friends, there are lots of organisations and charities that offer help specifically for young people. The Mix has a free, confidential telephone helpline and online service that aims to find you the best help, whatever the problem.

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It's pretty understandable if you're experiencing some negative thoughts at the moment. Learn how to step outside yourself and stay on top of your feelings – and do not hesitate to get further support if you're really struggling.

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Get support

If you're struggling with your mental health, or you're worried about one of your friends, there are lots of organisations and charities that offer help specifically for young people.

Support from charities

The Mix has a free, confidential telephone helpline and online service that aims to find you the best help, whatever the problem.

Shout 85258 provides free, confidential, 24/7 text message support in the UK for anyone struggling to cope. They can help with issues including suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, abuse, self-harm, relationship problems and bullying. Text "Shout" to 85258 to speak to an empathetic, trained volunteer who will listen and work with you to solve problems.

If you're under 19, you can also call 0800 1111 to talk to Childline. The number will not appear on your phone bill

Support from the NHS

You can find more information about NHS children and young people's mental health services (CYPMHS) on the NHS website. You can also look at your local Clinical Commissioning Group website.

Alternatively, most services also have their own website with information about access, referrals (including whether you can "self-refer") and contact details - try searching in your area for "CYPMHS" or "CAMHS" (children and adolescent mental health services, an older term used for some CYPMHS).

You can also talk to an adult you trust - for example a parent, carer, teacher, social worker or GP - and they can look into this for you.

Struggling with student life

On top of all the usual thoughts, feelings and worries that are part and parcel of student life, the changes brought about because of COVID-19 - and the possibilities of a lack of face-to-face learning and needing to self-isolate due to outbreaks at uni - mean there's lots going on right now that might be tough to deal with.

It's a totally natural reaction to a difficult situation, and there's plenty of help available if you think you or someone you know needs it.

Find out more about student life during COVID-19 and where to get support:

Help for problems during coronavirus (COVID-19)

Some of us have faced really hard times recently. It can feel like no one can help, but there are lots of organisations out there to support you through:

Barnardo's has also set up the See, Hear, Respond support hub - a dedicated service to help children, young people and their families or carers with problems caused by the COVID-19 outbreak.

Support for different groups

There are lots of organisations and networks who provide advice and support for specific groups. It can help to connect with other young people and supporters who understand where you are coming from:

If you have learning disabilities or you are autistic, this may have been an especially difficult time for you. Here are some resources that might be useful:

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Self-care tips videos for young people - Every Mind Matters

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Get support If you're struggling with your mental health, or you're worried about one of your friends, there are lots of organisations and charities that offer help specifically for young people. The Mix has a free, confidential telephone helpline and online service that aims to find you the best help, whatever the problem.

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This is one of those pick-your-path films that shows you how to stop dwelling on the things that are out of your control and refocus your mind on the choices you can make. And remember: it's always OK to ask for help if you need it.

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Get support

If you're struggling with your mental health, or you're worried about one of your friends, there are lots of organisations and charities that offer help specifically for young people.

Support from charities

The Mix has a free, confidential telephone helpline and online service that aims to find you the best help, whatever the problem.

Shout 85258 provides free, confidential, 24/7 text message support in the UK for anyone struggling to cope. They can help with issues including suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, abuse, self-harm, relationship problems and bullying. Text "Shout" to 85258 to speak to an empathetic, trained volunteer who will listen and work with you to solve problems.

If you're under 19, you can also call 0800 1111 to talk to Childline. The number will not appear on your phone bill

Support from the NHS

You can find more information about NHS children and young people's mental health services (CYPMHS) on the NHS website. You can also look at your local Clinical Commissioning Group website.

Alternatively, most services also have their own website with information about access, referrals (including whether you can "self-refer") and contact details - try searching in your area for "CYPMHS" or "CAMHS" (children and adolescent mental health services, an older term used for some CYPMHS).

You can also talk to an adult you trust - for example a parent, carer, teacher, social worker or GP - and they can look into this for you.

Struggling with student life

On top of all the usual thoughts, feelings and worries that are part and parcel of student life, the changes brought about because of COVID-19 - and the possibilities of a lack of face-to-face learning and needing to self-isolate due to outbreaks at uni - mean there's lots going on right now that might be tough to deal with.

It's a totally natural reaction to a difficult situation, and there's plenty of help available if you think you or someone you know needs it.

Find out more about student life during COVID-19 and where to get support:

Help for problems during coronavirus (COVID-19)

Some of us have faced really hard times recently. It can feel like no one can help, but there are lots of organisations out there to support you through:

Barnardo's has also set up the See, Hear, Respond support hub - a dedicated service to help children, young people and their families or carers with problems caused by the COVID-19 outbreak.

Support for different groups

There are lots of organisations and networks who provide advice and support for specific groups. It can help to connect with other young people and supporters who understand where you are coming from:

If you have learning disabilities or you are autistic, this may have been an especially difficult time for you. Here are some resources that might be useful:

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Self-care tips videos for young people - Every Mind Matters

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Get support If you're struggling with your mental health, or you're worried about one of your friends, there are lots of organisations and charities that offer help specifically for young people. The Mix has a free, confidential telephone helpline and online service that aims to find you the best help, whatever the problem.

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If you feel like you are struggling emotionally, take a look at the link. It can help with lots of different feelings and show you where you can get help for yourself, or for a loved one.

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If you’re struggling with your feelings, we have tips and advice from other young people, and information on getting the support you need for your mental health.

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Take a look at the link to find out more about staying safe at home, in school and in the community! From learning CPR to staying safe whilst walking home from school, there is so much to learn!

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Staying safe means you can have more fun! Learn how to play it safe at home, outdoors, and on the road.

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Do you know what makes a good friend and how you can be a good friend? Check out the link!

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Friendships make life a little easier

Having good friends can help boost your emotional wellbeing. Good friends do more than just making you feel happy, they are there for you when things get tough, and help support you in lots of different ways.

Friends come and go in our life and it doesn't matter how long a friendship lasts, the most important thing is that your friend accepts you for you.

What makes a good friend?

A good friend is there for you no matter what, and will always have your back when things get difficult

A good friend will comfort you when you are upset or crying

A good friend will laugh with you and make you smile

A good friend is kind, respectful and listens to you

A good friend is trustworthy and willing to tell you the truth, even when it's hard for you to hear

A good friend will encourage you to be a better person and inspire you to achieve more in life

Most importantly, a good friend is someone that you enjoy talking to and spending time with

While most friendships are positive, sometimes we have people who we think are friends, but can make life a little difficult.

What type of friend is this?

Someone who will talk about you behind your back or could even share your secrets with others

Someone who will pressure you into doing things that you don't want to do, and could force you into making bad decisions

Someone who will constantly judge, question you or make you feel bad about yourself

Someone who won't be there for you when you need support or advice

Someone who could take advantage of you, and only talk to you or hang out with you when they want something

Someone like this is no friend at all.

Having good friends is important, but it's also important to be a good friend in return. You should aim to be the type of friend that you would wish to have.

How can I be a good friend?

Make time for your friends and be a good listener, offering advice and support when needed

Be trustworthy and keep your promises and secrets as best you can

Apologise if you have made a mistake. Remember, not everyone is perfect and mistakes happen, so be willing to work through any disagreements or arguments

Just be yourself and accept your friend for who they are

Be respectful of your friends opinions, beliefs or feelings

Encourage and support your friend, and help them grow as a person

Look out for them even if it means getting support from others to help keep them safe. This might be difficult to do and your friend may not like it at the time, but they will be grateful of your support later on

Remember: Good friendships can help in many ways, from improving your mood to supporting you through difficult times and everything in between. Some friendships will last longer than others, but all friendships play an important part in your life.

How to get help

If you have any more questions on this area or would like to speak to somebody about this topic, have a look at the links or search for your local services in the blue box below. Alternatively you can always contact your school nurse.

Find help in your local area

Find help in your local area

Find out what services are available to you in your area. Remember your school nurse is always there to give you confidential help and support.

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Love your body, love yourself, #lovehealth

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Friendship: Just The Facts | Health For Teens

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Having good friends can help boost your emotional wellbeing. Good friends do more than just making you feel happy, they are there for you when things get tough, and help support you in lots of different ways.

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Remember, not everyone is the same and it is important to treat others with mutual respect and tolerance. Always treat someone else as you would want to be treated!

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In the UK we are lucky to have many human rights. Take a look at the image to learn some of the human rights we should be entitled to!

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Take a look at the website link, you can learn about what bullying consists of, how to know if you are being bullied and how to contribute to anti-bullying initiatives in your school or community!

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US Department of Health and Human Services

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Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs (ASPA)

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Learn what teens can do when they encounter common types of bullying at school and online.

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Find out about how to stay safe online and avoid sharing personal information online.

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Whether it's protecting yourself from hackers or cyberbullies, these tips for teens will help you navigate the digital world safely.

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This incredible article discusses how social media can have serious, negative influences on our body image.

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Remember, you only get one body so you need to make sure you take care of it! The website above provides you with tips and tricks to help you stay healthy.

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Vaping is becoming more and more common and you may feel some peer pressure to try it. Take a look at the website above which outlines the dangers of vaping and why it is not a good idea!

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What Is Vaping?

Vaping is the inhaling of a vapor created by an electronic cigarette ( e-cigarette) or other vaping device.

How Does Vaping Work?

E-cigarettes (or "vape pens") heat a liquid until it becomes a vapor, which is inhaled. The liquid (e-liquid or "vape juice") can contain nicotine or marijuana distillate or oil. E-cigarettes can be refillable or pre-filled with cartridges containing the e-liquid. The pre-filled e-cigarettes (called "Puff Bars") are designed for one-time use. After taking a certain number of "puffs," the user throws the device away.

What Are the Health Effects of Vaping?

The health risks of vaping include:

addiction: E-cigarettes contain nicotine, a drug that's highly addictive. You don't have to vape every day to get addicted.

anxiety and depression: Nicotine makes anxiety and depression worse. It also affects memory, concentration, self-control, and attention, especially in developing brains.

becoming a smoker: People who vape are more likely to start smoking regular (tobacco) cigarettes and may be more likely to develop other addictions in the future.

impotence: There is some evidence that vaping can cause sexual dysfunction in men.

sleep problems

exposure to cancer-causing chemicals

chronic bronchitis

lung damage that can be life-threatening

Other health effects are possible that we don't yet know about. Vaping hasn't been around that long, so its health risks aren't all known.

Why Should I Quit?

Wanting to be the best, healthiest version of yourself is an important reason to quit vaping. Others include:

Addiction: Addiction in the growing brain may set up pathways for later addiction to other substances.

Brain risks: Nicotine affects your brain development. This can make it harder to learn and concentrate. Some of the brain changes are permanent and can affect your mood and ability to control your impulses as an adult.

Use of other tobacco products: Studies show that vaping makes it more likely that someone will try other tobacco products, like regular cigarettes, cigars, hookahs, and smokeless tobacco.

Toxins (poisons): The vapor made from e-cigarettes is not made of water. The vapor contains harmful chemicals and very fine particles that are inhaled into the lungs and exhaled into the environment.

Sports: You want to do your best in sports, and vaping may lead to lung inflammation (irritation).

Money: Vaping is expensive! The cost of the cartridges over time starts to add up. Instead, you could spend that money on other things you need or enjoy.

To go against tobacco company advertising: Many e-cigarettes are made by the same companies that produce regular cigarettes. Their marketing targets young people by making fun flavors for e-cigarettes and showing young, healthy people vaping. They're trying to make you their next lifetime customer.

How Can I Quit?

Decide why you want to quit and write it down or put it in your phone. Look at the reason(s) when you feel the urge to vape.

Pick a day to stop vaping. Put it on the calendar and tell supportive friends and family that you're quitting on that day.

Get rid of all vaping supplies.

Download tools (such as apps and texting programs) to your phone that can help with cravings and give encouragement while you try to stop vaping. You can try:

Understand withdrawal. Nicotine addiction leads to very strong cravings for nicotine. It can also lead to:

feeling tired, cranky, angry, or depressed

trouble concentrating

trouble sleeping

hunger

restlessness

The signs of withdrawal are strongest in the first few days after stopping. They get better over the following days and weeks.

Get ready for feelings, people, and places that make you want to vape. If possible, avoid places and people that trigger the urge to vape. If you feel the urge to vape, try these things instead:

Chew sugar-free gum or drink water.

Text, call, or hang out with a friend who will support you.

Listen to your favorite playlist.

Go for a walk or jog.

Try yoga or meditation.

Take 10 deep breaths.

Keep your hands busy with a hobby, like drawing or making jewelry.

Go somewhere where smoking/vaping isn't allowed.

When Should I Call the Doctor?

Call your doctor right away if you vape and have:

coughing, shortness of breath, or chest pain

nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

tiredness, fever, or weight loss

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Vaping: What You Need to Know (for Teens) - Nemours KidsHealth

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E-cigarettes (or “vape pens”) heat a liquid until it becomes a vapor that’s inhaled. Vape juice can contain nicotine or marijuana distillate or oil. Here are the facts on vaping and its many health risks.

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If you ever feel like you are struggling with your mental health and do not know what to do, make sure you tell a parent/ carer or a teacher. This website has some tips to support you.

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We’re Mind, the mental health charity | Mind

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We're Mind, the mental health charity. We're here to make sure no one has to face a mental health problem alone.

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Puberty can be a scary time and we have to come to terms with changes to our bodies. Take a look at the website which will tell you more about the physical and emotional changes you will experience.

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What's Puberty?

Puberty (say: PYOO-ber-tee) is the name for the time when your body begins to develop and change as you move from kid to adult. We're talking about stuff like girls developing breasts and boys starting to look more like men.

It helps to know about the changes that puberty causes before they happen. That way, you know what to expect. It's also important to remember that everybody goes through these changes. No two people are exactly alike, but one thing everyone has in common is that we all go through puberty.

When Does Puberty Start?

Usually, puberty starts between ages 8 and 13 in girls and ages 9 and 15 in boys. This wide range in ages may help explain why some of your friends still look like young kids while others look more like adults.

What Changes Does Puberty Bring?

When your body is ready to begin puberty, your pituitary (say: pih-TOO-uh-ter-ee) gland, a pea-shaped gland located at the bottom of your brain, releases special hormones. Depending on whether you're a boy or a girl, these hormones go to work on different parts of the body.

For boys, the hormones travel through the blood and tell the testes (say: TES-teez), the two egg-shaped glands in the scrotum (the sac that hangs under the penis), to begin making testosterone (say: tess-TAHS-tuh-rone) and sperm. Testosterone is the hormone that causes most of the changes in a boy's body during puberty, and men need sperm to be able to reproduce (be the father of a baby).

In girls, these hormones target the two ovaries (say: OH-vuh-reez), which contain eggs that have been in the girl's body since she was born. The hormones cause the ovaries to start making another hormone, called estrogen. Together, these hormones prepare a girl's body to start her periods and be able to become pregnant someday.

Boys and girls both begin to grow hair under their arms and their pubic areas (on and around the genitals). It starts out looking light and thin. Then, as kids go through puberty, it becomes longer, thicker, heavier, curlier, and darker. Eventually, boys also start to grow hair on their faces.

What's a Growth Spurt?

A spurt is a short burst of activity or something that happens in a hurry. And a growth spurt is just that: Your body is growing and it's happening really fast!

When you go through puberty, it might seem like your sleeves are always getting shorter and your pants are creeping up your legs. That's because you're having a growth spurt that lasts for about 2 to 3 years. When that growth spurt is at its peak, some kids grow 4 or more inches (10 or more centimeters) in a year! At the end of your growth spurt, you'll have reached your adult height - or just about.

With all this quick growth, it can seem like one part of your body - your feet, for instance - are growing faster than everything else. This can make you feel clumsy or awkward. This is normal too! The rest of your body will eventually fill out and shape up, and you'll feel less klutzy.

With all this growing and developing going on, some kids may be uncomfortable with how their bodies are changing, but it's unhealthy to diet to try to stop any normal weight gain. If you have any questions about puberty or are worried about your height or weight, talk to your parent or doctor.

How Does Body Shape Change During Puberty?

Your body also fills out and changes shape during puberty. A boy's shoulders will grow wider and his body will become more muscular. He may notice a bit of breast growth on his chest. Don't worry, this is normal - and it goes away for most boys by the end of puberty.

In addition, boys' voices crack and eventually become deeper, their penises grow longer and wider, and their testes get bigger. These changes mean that their bodies are developing as they should during puberty.

Girls' bodies usually become curvier. Their hips get wider and their breasts develop, starting with just a little swelling under the nipples. Sometimes one breast grows more quickly than the other, but most of the time they even out. Girls may start wearing bras around this time, especially if they are involved in sports or exercise classes.

Girls might wonder: When will I get my first period? This usually happens about 2 years after her breasts start to develop. The menstrual (say: MEN-strul) period, or monthly cycle, is when blood is leaves the body through the vagina. That may sound alarming, but it's normal and it signals that a girl is growing up and her body is preparing so that she can have a baby someday.

Skin Changes During Puberty

Another thing that may come with puberty is acne (say: AK-nee) - or pimples - caused by all those hormones at work in the body.

To help control pimples, wash your face twice a day with warm water and a mild soap or cleanser. Don't squeeze, pick, or pop your pimples. Your doctor can also offer suggestions for clearing up acne. The good news is that acne usually gets a lot better as you get older.

Putting the P.U. in Puberty

P.U.! A lot of kids notice that they have a new smell under their arms and in other places when they hit puberty - and it's not a pretty one. That smell is body odor (you may have heard people call it B.O.) and everyone gets it.

As you enter puberty, the puberty hormones stimulate the glands in your skin, including the sweat glands under your arms. When sweat and bacteria on your skin get together, it can smell pretty bad.

So what can you do to feel less stinky? Well, keeping clean can stop you from smelling. You might want to take a shower every day, either in the morning before school or at night before bed. Showering after you've been playing sports or exercising is also a good idea.

Another way to cut down on body odor is to use deodorant. If you use a deodorant with antiperspirant, it will cut down on sweat too.

There's More?

Boys and girls will also notice other body changes as they enter puberty. Girls sometimes might see and feel white or clear stuff coming from the vagina. This doesn't mean anything is wrong - it's called vaginal discharge and is just another sign hormones are changing your body.

Boys will begin to get erections (this is when the penis fills with blood and becomes hard). Sometimes erections happen when boys think about sexual things or they can happen for no reason at all. Boys also may have something called nocturnal emissions (or wet dreams). This is when the penis becomes erect when a boy is sleeping and he ejaculates. When a boy ejaculates, semen - the fluid that contains sperm - comes out of the penis. That's why they're called wet dreams - they happen when you're sleeping and your underwear or the bed might be a little wet when you wake up. Wet dreams happen less often as boys move through puberty and they eventually stop.

Emotional Changes During Puberty

Just as those hormones change the way your body looks on the outside, they also create changes on the inside. During puberty, you might feel confused or have strong emotions that you've never had before. You might feel overly sensitive or become upset easily.

Some kids lose their tempers more often and get angry with their friends or families. You also may feel anxious about how your changing body looks.

Sometimes it can be hard to deal with all these new emotions. It's important to know that while your body is adjusting to the new hormones, so is your mind. Try to remember that people usually aren't trying to hurt your feelings or upset you on purpose. It might not be your family or friends - it might be your new "puberty brain" trying to adjust.

You might also have sexual feelings that you've never felt before. And you will probably have lots of questions about these new, confusing feelings about sex.

It's easy to feel embarrassed or nervous when talking about sex. It's important to get your questions answered, but you need to be sure you have all the right information. Some kids can talk to their parents about sex and get all their questions answered. But if you feel funny talking to your parents about sex, there are other people you can talk to, like your doctor, a school nurse, a teacher, a school counselor, or another trusted adult you feel comfortable talking with.

What if I'm Developing Differently?

People are all a little different from each other, so it makes sense that they don't all develop in the same way. During puberty, everyone changes at their own pace.

A few kids who are developing very early or who are very late in starting might have a problem that needs to be checked or treated. If you're worried, talk with your parents and schedule a visit with your doctor. Your doctor knows all about puberty and can see if you're developing normally.

Eventually, most differences between you and your friends will even out. Until then, hang in there. Puberty can be quite a wild ride!

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Voice cracking? Clothes don't fit? Puberty can be a confusing time, but learning about it doesn't have to be. Read all about it in this article for kids.

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The internet is a fantastic tool, however, sometimes it can bring disadvantages. Take a look at the link to see how you can protect yourself.

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Online grooming is where someone befriends a child online and builds up their trust with the intention of exploiting them and causing them harm.

Harm caused by grooming can be sexual abuse, both in person and online, and exploitation to obtain sexually explicit images and videos of the child. Grooming techniques could also be used to radicalise someone, or to obtain financial information from the child or their family.

How does it happen and who is at risk?

Groomers are very skilled at what they do and can often befriend a child by appearing to have the same hobbies and interests as them. Using fake accounts and photos, they may also appear to be the same age as the child.

However, not all groomers will choose to mask their age or gender. Some groomers may impersonate an aspirational figure, such as a modelling scout, sports coach, celebrity or influencer, whilst others may use their age and experience to develop a 'mentor' type relationship with their victim.

A groomer will use the same sites, games and apps as children in order to gain their trust and build a friendship. However, they may also seek to manipulate, blackmail and control the child, potentially isolating them from their friends and family.

Any child can be at risk of being groomed, regardless of age, gender, race or location. Some children may be more at risk due to other vulnerabilities or special educational needs and disabilities, and may find accessing support from a trusted adult or online reporting tools difficult.

Top Tips

Discuss the difference between online and offline friends

It's important to emphasise that, however nice a new friend online can seem, or however long they have spoken to them for, they are still a stranger.

Know the signs

Talk to your child about 'red flags' in chats which are important to report, block and tell an adult about. These would include someone suggesting to meet up offline, asking for personal information or to send photos or videos, chats moving to private messages, or asking them to keep secrets.

Find out where the report and block buttons are

Social media, apps, games and sites all offer reporting and blocking tools.You can find out more by visiting the UK Safer Internet Centre Safety Guides. You can also report grooming to CEOP.

Make sure your child knows you are there to help

Worrying about how a parent or carer will react can prevent young people from asking for help. Make sure that your child knows that, no matter what has happened, you are there to help them.

Know where to get more support

You can find out more about where to get support by visiting our pages for parents and carers and young people.

Conversation starters

1. What is the difference between people we only know online and people we know offline as well?

2. How do we know that we can trust someone?

3. Not all messages from someone new online are worrying, but how do you know which ones might be?

4. Do you know where the report and block buttons are on different apps?

5. Who can you come to for help if something worries or upsets you online? (include home, school and helplines)

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Online grooming is where someone befriends a child online and builds up their trust with the intention of exploiting them and causing them harm. Harm caused by grooming can be sexual abuse, both in person and online, and exploitation to obtain sexually explicit images and videos of the child.

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Take a look at the poster to discover the different British Values!

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Praise and criticism can both help us improve in many aspects of our lives, however, finding the balance can sometimes be difficult. Remember, constructive criticism involves giving you feedback to help you improve but should be offered sensitively.

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Staying healthy is important for our physical and mental health. Try this NHS quiz to find out how healthy you really are!

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Take our quiz to get your score, and see simple steps and ideas to look after your health and feel better. Take the first step today – let’s do this!

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If you feel like you need some help with your emotional well-being, always tell someone you trust. This could be a parent/ guardian or a teacher. Take a look at the website for some tips and tricks to help you whilst you seek support.

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YoungMinds | Mental Health Charity For Children And Young People

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YoungMinds are a mental health charity for children, young people and their parents, making sure all young people can get the mental health support they need.

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If you are struggling with anxiety and depression, take a look at the link which guides you to help provided through the NHS.

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you are not able to speak to your local NHS urgent mental health helpline

you need help urgently for your mental health, but it's not an emergency

you're not sure what to do

111 will tell you the right place to get help if you need to see someone.

You may be able to speak to a nurse, or mental health nurse, over the phone.

A GP can advise you about helpful treatments and also help you access mental health services. You may be able to refer yourself to some services.

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Where to get urgent help for mental health

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You may need urgent help for mental health for many different reasons. Some people call it a crisis, an emergency or a breakdown. It's important to know that support is available, whatever you're going through.

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Friendships can be difficult at times, especially with the use of social media. This video discusses common friendship problems and how to deal with them!

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Resilience involves your ability to bounce back when things go wrong, take a look at the attached resource which discusses resilience and how to develop it.

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When things go wrong, resilience is what helps you to cope and get through hard times. Sometimes it makes you even stronger than you were before.

What helps develop resilience?

Some things that can help develop resilience are:

Having a positive attitude

Feeling good about yourself

Having a supportive family

Helping others or 'giving back'

Developing self-awareness

Another important step to building resilience is to develop self-awareness.

It might be useful to explore:

What are my needs?

What are my goals?

What are my limits?

What is important to me?

What makes me happy?

What are my strengths?

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Building resilience: Bounce back after hard times!

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When things go wrong, resilience is what helps you to cope and get through hard times. Sometimes it makes you even stronger than you were before. Some things that can help develop resilience are: Having a positive attitude Feeling good about yourself Having a supportive family Helping others or 'giving back' Another important step to building resilience is to develop self-awareness.

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The internet is amazing isn't it? We can connect with so many people and find so much information! However, we need to take care. This video discusses how to stay safe online.

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The legal age to drink alcohol is 18, however, sometimes people can be pressured into trying it before then. This website advises you about the dangers of drinking alcohol and where to get help if you know that someone underage is.

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Getting the Right Message

"Hey, who wants a drink?"

"Oh, come on, just one drink won't hurt you. It's fun."

"It's cool. Everybody drinks, right?"
Wrong.
Drinking alcohol is dangerous for kids and teens and sometimes for adults, too. Alcohol is a drug, and it is the drug most abused by teens. Many kids have their first drink at an early age, as young as 10 or 11 or even younger.

It's easy for kids to get the wrong message about alcohol. They might see their parents drink or watch TV commercials that make drinking look like a lot of fun. You might see people drinking and watching sports together or having a big party.

But alcohol is actually a depressant. That means it's a drug that slows down or depresses the brain. Like many drugs, alcohol changes a person's ability to think, speak, and see things as they really are. A person might lose his or her balance and have trouble walking properly. The person might feel relaxed and happy and later start crying or get in an argument.

What Happens When People Drink?

When people drink too much, they might do or say things they don't mean. They might hurt themselves or other people, especially if they drive a car. Someone who drinks too much also might throw up and could wake up the next day feeling awful - that's called a hangover.

Drinking too much alcohol can lead to alcohol poisoning, which can kill a person. Over time, people who abuse alcohol can do serious damage to their bodies. The liver, which removes poisons from the blood, is especially at risk.

Because alcohol can cause such problems, the citizens and government leaders in the United States decided that kids shouldn't be allowed to buy or use alcohol. By setting the drinking age at 21, they hope older people will be able to make good decisions about alcohol. For instance, they don't want people to drink alcohol and drive cars because that's how many accidents occur.

Page 1

What Is Alcoholism?

What can be confusing about alcohol is that some grown-ups seem to be able to enjoy it occasionally with no problems. Other people, though, can develop a problem with it. Sometimes, that's called alcoholism (say: al-kuh-HOL-ism) or being an alcoholic (say: al-kuh-HOL- ik). Someone who has alcoholism craves alcohol. The person has little control over his or her drinking and can't stop without help. A person who starts drinking alcohol at a young age is more likely to develop alcoholism.

Alcoholism is chronic, which means it continues over time. It often gets worse, too, because the person may start experiencing health problems related to drinking. In addition to causing liver problems, long-term drinking can damage the pancreas, heart, and brain.

Say No

It can be tempting to try alcohol. It's normal to be curious about new things, especially if it seems like everyone is doing it. But everyone is not drinking alcohol. Don't believe it if someone says you're immature for not drinking. You're actually more mature (which means grown up) because you're being strong and smart.

Still, it can be hard if you feel unpopular because of your decision. Good friends won't stop being your friend just because you don't want to drink alcohol. If you feel this kind of pressure, talk to someone you trust.

And if you're concerned about a friend who's drinking, you should tell one of your parents, a school counselor, or another trusted adult. That way, someone can talk with your friend before the alcohol causes a big problem. Unfortunately, some kids who drink may also drop out of school, get in car accidents, start fights, or join in crimes.

But with help, anyone who has a problem with alcohol can be successful at stopping. And if you're still a kid, help yourself by not starting in the first place!

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"Hey, who wants a drink?" "Oh, come on, just one drink won't hurt you. It's fun." "It's cool. Everybody drinks, right?" Wrong. Drinking alcohol is dangerous for kids and teens and sometimes for adults, too. Alcohol is a drug, and it is the drug most abused by teens.

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Unfortunately, at some point in your life you may be offered illegal drugs. This link shows you the dangers and law around taking drugs.

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Focus Areas of Substance Use Research

Explore All of NIDA's Research Topics

Drug Use and Addiction

Learn how science has deepened our understanding of drug use and its impact on individual and public health.

See More Topics See Fewer Topics

People and Places

NIDA research supports people affected by substance use and addiction throughout the lifespan and across communities.

Research by Substance

Find evidence-based information on specific drugs and substance use disorders.

See More Topics See Fewer Topics

Drug Use and Addiction

Learn how science has deepened our understanding of drug use and its impact on individual and public health.

See More Topics See Fewer Topics

People and Places

NIDA research supports people affected by substance use and addiction throughout the lifespan and across communities.

Research by Substance

Find evidence-based information on specific drugs and substance use disorders.

See More Topics See Fewer Topics

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Research Topics | National Institute on Drug Abuse

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Focus Areas of Substance Use Research Learn how science has deepened our understanding of drug use and its impact on individual and public health. See More Topics See Fewer Topics NIDA research supports people affected by substance use and addiction throughout the lifespan and across communities.

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Antisocial behaviour involves the damage to someone's property, verbal abuse towards someone or violence towards a person in the community. This is very harmful and makes people feel vulnerable. Make sure you stay out of trouble and report this type of behaviour to the police if you ever witness it.

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CSE stands for Child Sexual Exploitation. Unfortunately, the internet is making this more common. Check out the link for more information.

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It’s not okay for someone to make or manipulate you into doing sexual things for the benefit or enjoyment of others. Real stories from real victims It’s not okay for someone

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It is important that you know how to refer to someone's gender identity and show support to the LGBTQ community. This website link has loads of good information!

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Your anatomy doesn't determine your gender identity and neither does the "gender binary".

What is the gender binary?The gender binary is the idea that there are only two genders - male and female.

In reality, gender is much more like a spectrum - it isn't set in stone and some people have fluid or fluctuating gender identities.

Trans: a gender identity and umbrella term for people whose gender differs from, or does not sit comfortably within, the gender they were assigned at birth.

A trans woman is a woman who was assigned male at birth. A trans man is a man who was assigned female at birth.

Cisgender: someone whose gender identity aligns with the gender they were assigned at birth.

Non-Binary: a gender identity and an umbrella term for people whose identity falls outside the gender binary. Some people do not identify wholly or at all with the gender they were assigned at birth - some people have no gender at all. The term non-binary comes under the trans umbrella.

Agender: a non-binary identity for people that have no gender at all. This term also falls under the trans umbrella.

Intersex: is not a gender identity and should not be lumped under the trans umbrella. It describes someone born with anatomical, hormonal and/or chromosomal variations in their sex characteristics. Some intersex people self-define as trans and/or non-binary, others with the gender they were assigned at birth.

It's always up to an individual as to how they describe their gender identity. Some people use multiple terms or shift between different terms to better represent their gender identity. This should always be respected and supported.

Respect people's names
Use the name and gender a trans person tells you to use. Don't ask what their 'real' name or gender is - this is disrespectful and distressing.

Gender identity and gender expression are different
Gender identity is someone's personal and intimate sense of their own gender. Gender expression is how they choose to reflect their gender identity in their physical appearance.

Don't make assumptions about someone's gender based on the way they dress - it may not reflect their gender identity or the appearance usually associated with their gender identity.

Use correct pronouns
Some people prefer gender-neutral pronouns such as they/their and ze/zir. If you are unsure which pronoun to use, wait for an appropriate moment and ask. Alternatively, indicate the pronouns you use first - this gives people an opportunity to say theirs too.

Appreciate gender diversity
All gender identities are valid and should be supported equally. If someone's gender is outside of the gender binary or they don't have a gender identity at all, it simply reflects the diversity of people's identities.

Support everyone
Recognise and respect the lives and experiences of all trans and non-binary people, and understand the oppression they face. This includes supporting trans people of colour, sex workers, and people with disabilities.

Help your friends
Going to a gendered bathroom or changing room can be difficult for trans people, especially when they are made to feel like they don't belong.

One practical thing you can do to help your trans friends - if they want you to - is to go inside with them. This ensures they don't have to face any potential transphobia alone.

Call out transphobia
Challenge friends and family members who make transphobic comments. Dealing with toxic, dehumanising attitudes can be extremely draining and distressing for trans people. Support from others can really help.

Listen and learn
Learning the appropriate terminology and language can be daunting. If you make a mistake, apologise and learn from the experience.

Honest mistakes - as opposed to intentional attempts to invalidate someone's identity - don't make you transphobic.

Don't out anyone
It can be dangerous for trans people to be open about their gender identity. Don't tell anyone about someone's gender identity without their consent, even if they have come out to their friends, family or wider society.

Educate yourself
It's important to learn more about trans experiences, but remember that trans people are not walking encyclopaedias.

Organisations like Stonewall, Mermaids, Gendered Intelligence and GLAAD have lots of resources online.

Answering questions
'Should trans women be allowed in women's refuges?'
'What about public toilets and changing rooms?'
'Should children and young people be taught about trans issues?'
Stonewall has lots of useful information about these and other frequently asked questions.

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Gender identity for beginners: a guide to being a great trans ally

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Your anatomy doesn't determine your gender identity and neither does the "gender binary". What is the gender binary?The gender binary is the idea that there are only two genders - male and female. In reality, gender is much more like a spectrum - it isn't set in stone and some people have fluid or fluctuating gender identities.

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What is a democracy? Find out here!

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What is parliament and what does it do? Take a look at the video.

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We know MPs (Members of Parliament) play some sort of important role, but what do they actually do? Find out here!

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What your MP does all day  |  BBC Newsbeat

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Treating people with respect is one of the most essential things we can do. Look at how it can impact others on this video.

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How You Treat People Is Who You Are! (Kindness Motivational Video)

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People who identify as male, female and non-binary should all be treated the same. Unfortunately, society still has some preconceptions about the roles of different genders and gender identities. Remember, do not follow stereotypes, be yourself at all times.

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Unfortunately, homophobia stills takes place towards members of the LGBTQ community. This should not be happening. Homophobic bullying can lead to suicide and is a form of discrimination. Always stand up to it, report it to an adult or a teacher that you trust. Take a look at the article and video to see a testimonial of a boy who was bullied for his sexuality which led to his suicide.

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'No One Had the Right To Make Him Feel Like He Did Not Belong in This World'

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TIME spoke with the Rodemeyers ahead of the ten year anniversary of Jamey's death about their son's life and legacy, and the progress yet to be made.

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Gambling is addictive and can cost people their lives and their families. It is easier now that you can gamble online. This article shows the story of young women who have suffered from this and lost everything.

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An awareness campaign is being launched to support an estimated one million UK women at risk of harmful gambling.

The charity Gamble Aware says some may not recognise the warning signs or feel too much shame and stigma to seek help.

The estimates come from a nationally representative YouGov poll of 9,649 women, using a recognised scoring system - Problem Gambling Severity Index - to measure gambling harms.

It suggests half a million could be dangerously hooked.

The campaign will run until March across TV, social and digital channels.

Lisa Walker, 49, from Rainham in Essex, struggled with compulsive gambling for more than a decade. Her habit escalated in her late 20s, after she won a large sum of money playing poker.

"I won over £127,000 in one night. That was the worst night of my life because that's when my addiction really started to spiral out of control.

"The casino wanted me back and they offered me anything I wanted - free drinks, free meals to entice me."

She says she would go there often, as well as nipping into the local bingo hall and betting shop, to feed what had become a damaging habit.

"Most days I thought about gambling and most days I did gamble. It got to the stage where I didn't have any value of money any more."

Eventually, she lost all of her winnings, as well as her home, after re-mortgaging her house to keep gambling.

She ended up staying in a hostel for a while with her two children, who were 10 and 11 at the time.

More on gambling addiction

At 45, Lisa's addiction continued. She even chose to marry her partner at a venue in Vegas - then spent her wedding night gambling at the casino rather than celebrating with her groom and guests.

When she returned from Vegas, Lisa realised she needed help, as gambling had taken her to a "deep, dark place" where she could think of nothing else.

Lisa decided to attend a Gamblers Anonymous meeting, where she was one of two women among 35 men. She now attends meetings every week and is starting to see more women come to the meetings.

Lisa is in recovery and is setting up her own women's group, as well as working for Betknowmore as a Peer Aid worker. She says online gambling is a new way people are getting hooked.

"We are seeing so many people coming through, getting online. You've got a 24-hour mobile phone and a 24-hour casino in your pocket and within a couple of minutes you can be online gambling."

Liz Karter, a UK expert in gambling addiction in women and a gambling addiction counsellor, said: "Gambling behaviours manifest themselves differently in women than men.

"For example, we know the easy availability of online gambling leads many women to games which appear innocent and socially acceptable. The games seem safe and familiar, as they are so similar to the free play digital games we are all now used to playing.

"In addition, the hopes of financial gains can prove a powerful motivator. While gambling doesn't always lead to harm, it's vital women are aware of early warning signs including losing track of time, incurring increasing debt, or a tendency to hide gambling from others or gambling to forget their problems."

GP Dr Ellie Cannon said warning signs of gambling harms include:

A spokeswoman for the Gambling Commission, the government body which regulates gambling in the UK, said: "Campaigns like this are absolutely vital to raising awareness of the risks of gambling harms.

"We support any initiative which offers support and advice to help those gambling do so in a safe manner. Alongside our strong regulatory requirements on gambling companies, it plays an important role in preventing and reducing gambling-related harms."

Help and support

If you're affected by any of the issues in this article, you can find details of organisations who can help via the BBC Action Line.

More on this story

Related Internet Links

The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites.

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Women who gamble: Winning £127,000 'worst day of my life'

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An awareness campaign is being launched to support an estimated one million UK women at risk of harmful gambling. The charity Gamble Aware says some may not recognise the warning signs or feel too much shame and stigma to seek help.

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This website tells you everything you need to know about self harm and where to get support.

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If you need help right now

If you feel like you are about to self-harm now, there are things you can do to help keep your mind off it. Watch the video about the TIPP technique - a simple technique you can use to help you in the moment.
If you are in an emergency or worried for your life you should call 999.

Self-harm is when you intentionally cause harm to yourself as a way of dealing with difficult feelings, traumatic experiences or memories, neglect, or situations that you find overwhelming. People sometimes self-harm when life feels hard to cope with.

Self-harm can look different for different people. You might find yourself doing things which are harmful, but not think of them as 'self-harm'. But that doesn't make your experience any less valid.

Self-harm can look like:

cutting yourself

using drugs or alcohol to cope with your problems

not eating, over-eating, or forcing yourself to throw up

spending all your time on addictive behaviours like gaming, social media or gambling

over-exercising and/or exercising when you are injured

biting, hitting or burning yourself

hitting walls

getting into situations on purpose where you risk getting hurt, including fights or risky sexual behaviour

Often self-harming only brings temporary relief. You might also have negative feelings after self-harming, such as guilt, shame or fear. When difficult feelings start to build up again, you might feel like you have to harm again. It can be really hard to break out of this cycle. Self-harming can become a habit and it can be upsetting to think that this is your only way to cope. But there are things you can do to stop self-harming and get better. And with support, you can learn other ways of coping when things feel too much.

People self-harm for many different reasons. Some people find it hard to explain why they do it, but often it's a way for people to let out feelings that are hard to explain or control.

There are many reasons why you might self-harm and these reasons will be different for everyone. You might be dealing with lots of intense thoughts and feelings and hurting yourself might feel like the only way to let those feelings out. Or you might feel numb and want to hurt yourself so that you can feel something.

For some people, self-harm feels like a way to show the feelings they have inside on the outside. It can be a way of:

People often start self-harming due to something stressful or upsetting that is going on in their life that is difficult to deal with . This could be something like:

suffering abuse

experiencing a traumatic incident

family problems like a divorce

money worries

bullying

a sudden change in your life, like a death, a relationship ending or moving school

exam stress or extreme pressure or criticism from family, friends, teachers or at work

low self-esteem or issues with body image

difficult feelings like loneliness, anxiety, depression or anger

an illness or health problem

feelings of guilt, failure, or being unloved

experiencing discrimination against your race, religion, sexuality, gender or disability

These are just examples. Whatever the reason you started self-harming, your feelings matter and you can get through this.

You may not always know the reason why you are self-harming. If you're unsure why, or don't understand the reasons, you are not alone and you can still get help.

Show/hide caption

Artwork credit: @the_mini_ADHD_coach

An illustration of a face with eyes closed. Text reads: 'It's ok to feel overwhelmed.'

Things can happen in life that can leave us feeling overwhelmed, angry and hurt. Instead of finding ways to express those feelings to the world, we might start to take this pain and anger out on ourselves.

We might self-harm because we have learnt that in order to be accepted or loved we have to be 'perfect'. When we don't live up to this 'perfect' image we can feel like a 'failure'. The constant guilt, or worry about disappointing people, can make us feel like we need to punish ourselves for not being 'good enough'. If this resonates with you, you're not alone. With the right support, you can stop feeling this way, and learn to love yourself for who you are.

Sometimes people make comments about self-harm being attention-seeking. Comments like this can be hurtful and make you feel judged, alone or misunderstood. Those who self-harm actually often keep this private. However, if you do self-harm as a way of bringing attention to yourself, remember that there is nothing wrong with wanting people to notice you more and wanting to have your feelings taken seriously. You deserve to feel loved by those around you and you deserve support.

Show/hide caption

Artwork credit: @ohhappydani

An illustration of six arms all of different skin tones. On each arm reads the word 'worthy'.

Overall, the most important thing which I hope everyone knows is you don't have to go through this alone.

I was only 14 when I started to self-harm. I was never intending to hurt myself. I was doing it for the sense of relief it provided. I felt like the only way I could function and leave my room was if I had that release.

Ways to keep yourself safe now

It's really important to keep yourself as safe as possible and reduce your risk of serious self-injury. Even though you want to stop self-harming, you might not feel able to stop straight away. Sometimes it can take time to find new ways to cope, and that's normal.

If you are unable to stop self-harming right now, make sure you are at least doing it as safely as possible. This means using sterile equipment, keeping your wounds clean, and avoiding mixing drugs and alcohol with other forms of self-harm. You can also call Samaritans at any time - whether you're thinking about self-harm or have already harmed yourself.
If you are in an emergency or worried for your life you should call 999 or go to A&E.

Things you can do to help

There are also lots of things you can do in the moment to help you not self-harm.

When you feel the urge to self-harm building, you could try to:

go for a walk or do some gentle exercise

distract yourself by focusing on your breathing

text a friend and let them know you need them to help you take your mind off things

play music and sing or dance along

hold an ice cube

write down your thoughts

hit a cushion or pillow

tear up a magazine or newspaper

make a self-soothe box

go to a public place like a park or a cafe

You might find the TIPP technique helps to stop your urge to self-harm.

This video explains how to use the TIPP technique to help you feel calmer.

Ways to keep yourself safe in the long term

There are also a number of ways to help yourself in the long term and support your recovery journey.

Talking about self-harm can feel difficult. It is understandable that you might feel nervous to talk to someone, feel like you'll be judged or feel you won't be understood. But talking about how you're feeling with someone you trust can help you to get the right support.

Try talking to someone you feel comfortable and safe with, like a friend or family member. If you don't feel like you can talk to friends or family, you could talk to someone in your wider community, such as a teacher, a school counsellor/nurse, a faith leader or a youth worker. Think about who you would feel most comfortable communicating with and how, whether it's face to face, over the phone, by text or email.

In some communities it can feel more difficult to reach out for help because of certain stigmas around mental health. If you reach out for help and the person you talk to does not react the way you hoped, remember that this reaction is about them, not you. Don't let their reaction discourage you from reaching out again. If you don't feel like you can reach out to someone you know, remember that there are still lots of people who can help. You may prefer to get support from a professional, a helpline or through a charity. Take a look at our list of organisations that can help, and don't struggle on your own.

Speaking to a professional about self-harm can feel scary, but it's often an important step to recovery. You may be worried that you'll be misunderstood or judged, but there are lots of trained people that you can talk to who understand and really care. That's because they speak to lots of young people who are going through this too. They are there to listen and support you.

It is helpful to tell the GP exactly what you are doing and what your worries are. If you need medical treatment for injuries, do make sure you get it. Don't be afraid or embarrassed to go to your GP or hospital for this - they are there to help you get better and it is not their job to judge you.

Your GP will listen and discuss the best options to support you. They might offer you an assessment with a local community mental health team, or if you are under 18, they can refer you to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) for an assessment. These assessments are so they can help you to find the right treatment, such as counselling or talking therapy, where you can talk with a trained mental health professional about what you are feeling and ways you can cope.

The types of talking therapy you might be offered include:

cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) - a type of therapy that focuses on how your thoughts, beliefs and attitudes affect your feelings and actions

dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) - a type of CBT adapted specifically for people who experience emotions very intensely

mentalisation-based therapy (MBT) - a type of therapy that focuses on helping you to make sense of your own and other people's thoughts, feelings and actions

Find out more about counselling and therapy in our guide.

Sometimes the first person you speak to won't help, but that doesn't make your feelings invalid. If you are finding it hard to get the right support from your GP, you may find it helpful to turn to other support, such as your school nurse or a specialist organisation such as Samaritans. For more tips and advice getting the right support from your GP, including information about your rights as a patient, visit our guide on how to speak to your GP about mental health.

Journaling can be a helpful way to let out your emotions. It can also help you to recognise what is bothering you and any patterns in what triggers you or causes you to feel bad.

Take a few minutes every day to write down how you are feeling. If you don't like writing, try doodling, drawing or recording a voice note. Remember this is just a way to express yourself - there's no right or wrong way to do this and nobody has to see it but you.

If you want to, you could show your journal to any mental health professionals who are supporting you, to help them understand what you are going through.

Sometimes just making small changes to your daily routine can help improve your mood. Consider trying some of these changes:

Make sure you get enough sleep and stay hydrated - staying physically healthy can help you to feel happier.

Take time out when you need to - this could be going for a walk, doing some drawing or relaxing however you like to.

Think of three things you are proud of each day - you could do this when you first wake up or just before you go to sleep.

Be as kind to yourself as you would be to your best friend - think about the advice and support you would give someone else if you heard they were struggling.

The internet can be a helpful space for those who self-harm. It offers a lot of information, advice and support. You may also find that it's easier to speak openly about your feelings through social media, rather than face-to-face. However, there is also a lot of content about self-harm on the internet that can be distressing or make you feel worse. We also know that those who have peers that self-harm are more likely to self-harm themselves. Think about how your use of social media is affecting your mood and what content is best for you. Make sure to only follow accounts that make you feel positive and safe.

Some people find it really helpful to create a 'safety plan' that they can use when the urge to self-harm is really strong. This can include whatever you think would be helpful, but generally it includes ideas of what you can do to distract yourself, who you can speak to, and what else you can do to keep yourself safe. Papyrus have a useful guide to creating a safety plan, which might help if you'd like to create your own. Although the focus of their guide is for suicidal feelings, you can use it for self-harm as well.

Show/hide caption

Artwork credit: @crazyheadcomics

An image of a bendy road titled 'the road to recovery'. Text along the road reads: 'start', 'progress', 'hope', 'relapse', 'second attempt', 'setback', 'growth', 'change', 'calm'.

If you have self-harmed by cutting or wounding yourself in some way, you are likely to have scars on your body from this. You may find that you have a number of emotions and feelings associated with these scars, such as guilt, regret or difficulties accepting your body image. This can be particularly difficult if you are experiencing stigma around your self-harm.

For advice on how to manage stigma around self-harm within your community, take a look at Louisa's blog.

If you're really struggling with the scars left on your body, you may be able to find treatment that can help. You can find information about scar treatments on the NHS website. Scars will look different for everyone depending on skin tone, where the scar is and the type of wound that caused the scar, and this will lead to different treatment options. Not everyone will want to do this and that is completely okay - it is your body and you should only do what feels comfortable for you.

It can be really difficult if you know a friend or loved one is self-harming. It's hard to see someone you love hurting themself in that way, and it can be difficult to know how best to support them.

Just being there and letting them know they're not alone can be very helpful, but it's also important to remember that you may not be able to help them on your own.

Remember there is always support available.

Recognising the signs and symptoms of self-harm

There are lots of different ways that someone might self-harm and this can make it difficult to spot the signs. Your loved one is likely to be in both physical and emotional pain during this time. Here are some signs to look out for.

If your loved one is self-harming by cutting or wounding themself, you may be able to notice some physical signs. This could include:

keeping their body fully covered all the time, even when it is hot, like wearing long sleeves to conceal scars (this is only a sign of self-harm if they do not normally wear long sleeves or clothes that cover the whole body)

having cuts, bruises or burn marks on their body that are unexplained

unexplained scarring on their skin

unexplained blood stains on clothing or tissues

any signs that they are pulling out their hair, for example hair loss or large clumps of hair lying around

Self-harm takes lots of different forms, not just physically hurting yourself. So it's important to also be aware of the emotional signs. These might include:

becoming very withdrawn and talking less than usual to others

unusual changes in mood, such as feeling low, teary or demotivated

making suicidal comments e.g. talking about not wanting to go on

expressing feelings of self-blame, hopelessness or failure

Supporting a loved one with self-harm now
If a friend or family member has self-harmed and has injuries that need medical attention, you should take them to A&E to seek medical help.
The most important thing you can do to support someone is be there to listen. Talking about self-harm is difficult, but having that conversation can help your loved one take the first step to recovery.

Take a look at our tips below for having a sensitive conversation.

Supporting a loved one with self-harm in the long term

Here are some tips on how you can give ongoing support to someone in your life who is self-harming.

Recovery can only happen when your loved one takes steps towards this for themself. You can't force someone to get better. It can be very difficult to see someone you love struggle with self-harm, but letting them be in control of their decisions will support their recovery in the long term. But remember you should always get them medical attention if needed.

You may find it helpful to develop a 'safety plan' with your loved one. This is a tool you can use to help communicate with each other and keep your loved one safe. Samaritans have advice on this as well as a safety plan template you can use.

Speaking to a GP about self-harm may be a scary thought for your loved one, but encouraging them to do this is important so they get the right support. If they really don't want to talk to a GP, there are also lots of charity services and helplines that can help.

This page was reviewed in June 2023. It was co-created by young people with lived experience of self-harm. We will next review the page in 2026. YoungMinds is a proud member of PIF TICK - the UK's quality mark for trusted health information.
Whether you love the page or think something is missing, we appreciate your feedback. It all helps us to support more young people with their mental health.

Please be aware that this form isn't a mental health support service. If you are in crisis right now and want to talk to someone urgently, find out who to contact on our urgent help page.

At YoungMinds we take your privacy seriously. If you'd like to read more about how we keep the information we collect safe, take a look at our privacy policy.

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Self-harm | Advice for young people | Get help

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Self-harm is when you intentionally harm yourself as a way of dealing with difficult feelings or experiences. Find out about self-harm and how to get help.

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Remember, sending a nude image under the age of 18 is considered child pornography and is highly illegal and harmful. When you send an image you do not know where it will end up and it can compromise your reputation, your future job and many other aspects. Look at the statistics on this web page to find out more.

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There are many different types of family. Take a look at this bitesize page to learn more!

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Most religions consider family life to be a blessing and value the stability of marriage. Christians believe the Church should be a model of family life.
ONS, 2012; NHS, 2011
There are various different types of family in the UK.

Nuclear family - a family unit consisting of two adults and any number of children living together. The children might be biological, step or adopted.

Extended family - grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, either all living nearby or within the same household. For example, if a married couple lives with either the husband or wife's parents the family changes from a nuclear to extended household.

Reconstituted family - also known as a blended family or step family. A family where one or both adults have children from previous relationships living with them.

Single parent family - consists of a parent not living with a partner, who has most of the day-to-day responsibilities for raising the children. The children will live with this single parent for the majority of the time, but they may still have contact with their other parent.

Same-sex family - since civil partnerships were legalised in 2005, the number of same sex families has been growing (same-sex marriage was legalised in 2014). Same-sex couples cannot conceive together, so their children may be adopted or be the biological children of one member of the couple. They may also be from a sperm donor or a surrogate birth mother.

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Family life - Personal and family issues: Different types of family - CCEA - GCSE Religious Studies Revision - CCEA - BBC Bitesize

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Most religions consider family life to be a blessing and value the stability of marriage. Christians believe the Church should be a model of family life. ONS, 2012; NHS, 2011 There are various different types of family in the UK. Nuclear family - a family unit consisting of two adults and any number of children living together.

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Take a look at the link which discusses divorce in families and the effects it can have on children/ strategies to help you if you experience this in your family.

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It can be rough on the whole family when parents split up. You don't have to go through it alone.

It's ok to feel...

When parents split up it can be a lot to deal with!

It might bring up some of the following emotions:

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It can be rough on the whole family when parents split up. You don't have to go through it alone. When parents split up it can be a lot to deal with! It might bring up some of the following emotions:

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This website tells you all about parliament, the people involved and what takes place.

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Parliament is the legislature, or lawmaking group, in the government of the United Kingdom (Great Britain). The government leader, called the prime minister, is always a…

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Find out here what types of laws affect you!

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Should you need help finding best troubled teen schools, Christian boarding schools for girls, Christian boarding schools, therapeutic teen ranches, Christian boarding schools, or Christian boarding schools, please let us know. Therapeutic programs and schools like this will provide treatment for troubled teens. Boarding Schools (Emotional Growth Schools and Therapeutic Boarding Schools) provide supervision and counseling for at-risk teenage boys and girls. Rehabs for teens provide addiction counseling and drug abuse recovery. Residential Treatment Centers offer clinical treatment with both academic and behavioral support, plus medication management and medical monitoring. They treat adolescents with serious psychological and behavioral issues, are highly structured, and they offer recreational and adventure activities.

Teenagers Rights in the UK

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Teenagers Rights in the UK - Teen Help - Parenting of Teenagers

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Should you need help finding best troubled teen schools, Christian boarding schools for girls, Christian boarding schools, therapeutic teen ranches, Christian boarding schools, or Christian boarding schools, please let us know. Therapeutic programs and schools like this will provide treatment for troubled teens.

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What is joint enterprise? It is very important that you know! Read this article to find out.

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Garry Newlove was attacked in August 2007 after he confronted a group outside his house. He died two days later.

In January 2008, three teenagers Adam Swellings, 19, Stephen Sorton, 17, and Jordan Cunliffe, 16, were jailed for life for the murder.

Cunliffe's mother Janet claims that although he was present at the scene he did not take part in the murder.

She has told Newsbeat that her son was wrongly jailed.

All three were convicted under a law called joint enterprise. His mother is campaigning against it.

What is joint enterprise?

The law allows for several people to be charged with the same offence, even though they may have played very different roles in the crime.

Joint enterprise can apply to all crimes, but recently it has been used as a way to prosecute homicide - especially in cases involving gangs of young men.

Figures, obtained by the Bureau of Investigative Journalism (BIJ) using Freedom of Information requests, showed that between 2005 and 2013 there were 4,590 prosecutions for homicide with two or more defendants.

Prosecutions for homicides involving two or more defendants meet the Crown Prosecution Service's definition of joint enterprise.

Janet Cunliffe's view

Gary Newlove was kicked "like a football" by the youths, the court heard during the trial.

But Ms Cunliffe told Newsbeat that she doesn't think her son deserves to be in prison.

"Jordan wasn't actually confronted by Mr Newlove, so he didn't hear any argument and he didn't have any argument with Mr Newlove," she said.

"From Jordan's point of view, as a visually disabled person, because at the time Jordan was blind, he didn't see the incident and obviously because he didn't have an argument with anyone he didn't hear anything that happened.

"We were pretty confident that he hadn't murdered anyone. The evidence proved that he hadn't murdered anyone and we were pretty confident that we could prove that."

She also told Newsbeat that she didn't know anything about joint enterprise or what it involved before the case, which saw two other youths found not guilty of Mr Newlove's murder.

"Jordan never denied that he was present at the scene," she said. "He knew he must have been in the location when it happened but he didn't have any involvement - but that doesn't seem to matter when it comes to joint enterprise."

What do other people think?

Janet Cunliffe is campaigning to have the joint enterprise law changed or scrapped completely.

"There are occasions when the law can be used and it can be used appropriately," she said.

"My point is if someone hasn't actually murdered anyone, someone hasn't planned the murder and hasn't taken part in it, then how can you be put in prison for murder when you haven't actually done anything?"

Former Lord Chief Justice Lord Phillips told the BIJ that the law could cause injustice and that joint enterprise needed reform as it was "capable of producing injustice, undoubtedly".

But Director of Public Prosecutions Alison Saunders said joint enterprise was a vital prosecuting tool.

She said: "In some cases it's not very clear because of the circumstances of the case exactly who did what, but if we know that everyone was participating in the crime then it helps us to be able to prosecute them, and to put those facts before the court.

"If you're just standing there, we won't prosecute you."

The wife of Gary Newlove still believes all those prosecuted "are as guilty as the person doing the act".

The Ministry of Justice says the joint enterprise law has allowed some of the most serious offenders to be brought to justice and there are no plans to change it.

Jordan Cunlffe's case is being supported by the writer Jimmy McGovern whose recent drama, Common, was inspired by his case. It's available on iPlayer.

Follow @BBCNewsbeat on Twitter and Radio1Newsbeat on YouTube

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Joint enterprise: What is it and should it be changed?

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Garry Newlove was attacked in August 2007 after he confronted a group outside his house. He died two days later. In January 2008, three teenagers Adam Swellings, 19, Stephen Sorton, 17, and Jordan Cunliffe, 16, were jailed for life for the murder.

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Every year you raise money for Children in Need. But what does the money go towards? You can find out here!

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At BBC Children in Need, we raise funds to make sure we can be there for children and young people by funding thousands of local charities and projects.

Our SPOTacular annual appeal in November inspires our communities across the UK to come together, raise funds and show support.

There are plenty of ways to go the extra mile for BBC Children in Need. Supporters take on SPOTacular walkathons and sponsored cycles, host bake sales, and a whole lot more!

Our November appeal wouldn't be complete without our big night of television on the BBC, featuring famous faces, SPOTacular programmes, and reports from children and young people whose lives have been changed thanks to your support.

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At BBC Children in Need, we raise funds to make sure we can be there for children and young people by funding thousands of local charities and projects. Our SPOTacular annual appeal in November inspires our communities across the UK to come together, raise funds and show support.

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At some point in your life, you will feel stressed. Find out more about stress and how to reduce it!

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What Is Stress? (for Teens) - Nemours KidsHealth

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Stress is a normal response to life’s changes, pressures, and challenges. It’s a mind-and-body signal that helps you get ready for what’s ahead. Find out more about how stress can help, and how it sometimes holds you back.

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Taking drugs can have serious consequences on you health, as well as being illegal.

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Not all drugs are against the law, although, legal drugs can be just as risky. Take a look at Rose's story to find out more.

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Rose’s experience of taking legal highs | Modern Studies - Drink and Drugs: My Stories

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Find out the facts and dangers of psychoactive substances.

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Previously called legal highs, new psychoactive substances might come packaged but how safe are they? Find out everything you need to know with FRANK. | FRANK

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Take a look at the information about sexting and the law. Remember, never share any personal images and report any you see.

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This page provides information on the law relating to child sexting or sharing indecent images or texts of children and contains advice on what to do if your child has been involved in sexting.

What is sexting?

Sexting is the sending or posting of naked or semi-naked images, videos, or live streams by young people under the age of 18. This could be via social media, gaming platforms, chat apps, or forums. It could also involve device sharing via services such as Apple's AirDrop, which works offline. The term 'nudes' is used because it is most commonly understood by young people and more accurately describes all types of image sharing incidents. Children and teenagers may use terms such as 'dick pics' or 'pics'.

The reasons for taking and sharing naked and semi-naked images, videos, and live streams are not always sexual or criminal. These images can be created and shared consensually by young people who are in relationships as well as those who are not. A young person in a consensual relationship may also be coerced into sharing an image with their partner. Incidents may also occur in the following locations:

children and young people find nudes and semi-nudes online and share them claiming to be from a peer

children and young people digitally manipulate an image of a young person into an existing nude online

images created or shared are used to abuse peers e.g. by selling images online or obtaining images to share more widely without consent to publicly shame

What does the law say?

In the UK the age of consent for sexual intercourse is 16. However, it is an offence to make, distribute, possess or show any indecent images of anyone aged under 18, even if the content was created with the consent of that young person. The law is contained in Section 1 Protection of Children Act 1978. 'Indecent' is not defined in legislation. When cases are prosecuted, the question of whether any photograph of a child is indecent is for a jury, magistrate or district judge to decide.

Indecent imagery does not always mean nudity; however, images are likely to be defined as such if they meet one or more of the following criteria:

nude or semi-nude sexual posing (e.g. displaying genitals and/or breasts or overtly sexual images of young people in their underwear)

someone nude or semi-nude touching themselves in a sexual way

any sexual activity involving a child

someone hurting someone else sexually

sexual activity that includes animals

The non-consensual sharing of private sexual images or videos with the intent to cause distress is also illegal. The relevant legislation is contained in section 33 of the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015.

Terms such as 'revenge porn' and 'upskirting' are also used to refer to specific incidents of nudes and semi-nudes being shared. However, these terms are more often used in the context of adult-to-adult non-consensual image sharing offences outlined in s.33-35 of the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015, Voyeurism (Offences) Act 2019 and s.67A of the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

What is the role of the Police?

The National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) has made it clear that incidents involving sharing nudes and semi-nudes should have an immediate focus on safeguarding children. In many cases, education settings may respond to incidents without involving the police, for example where an incident can be defined as 'experimental' and there is no evidence abusive or aggravating elements. The police may, however, need to be involved in some cases to ensure thorough investigation, including the collection of all evidence (for example, through multi-agency checks). Even when the police are involved, a criminal justice response and formal sanction against a child or young person would only be considered in exceptional circumstances.

What can a school do if sexting has occurred?

When an incident involving nudes and semi-nudes comes to the attention of any member of staff in an education setting:

the incident should be referred to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) as soon as possible

the DSL (or equivalent) should hold an initial review meeting with appropriate staff. This may include the staff member(s) who heard the disclosure and the safeguarding or leadership team who deal with safeguarding concerns

there should be subsequent interviews with the children or young people involved (if appropriate)

parents and carers should be informed at an early stage and involved in the process in order to best support the child or young person unless there is good reason to believe that involving them would put the child or young person at risk of harm

a referral should be made to children's social care and/or the police immediately if there is a concern that a child or young person has been harmed or is at risk of immediate harm at any point in the process.

The initial review meeting should consider the initial evidence and aim to establish:

whether there is an immediate risk to any child or young person if a referral should be made to the police and/or children's social care

if it is necessary to view the image(s) in order to safeguard the child or young person - in most cases, images or videos should not be viewed

what further information is required to decide on the best response

whether the image(s) has been shared widely and via what services and/or platforms. This may be unknown

whether immediate action should be taken to delete or remove images or videos from devices or online services

any relevant facts about the children or young people involved which would influence risk assessment

if there is a need to contact another education, setting or individual

whether to contact parents or carers of the children or young people involved - in most cases they should be involved

The decision to respond to the incident without involving the police or children's social care should only be made in cases where the DSL (or equivalent) is confident that they have enough information to assess the risks to any child or young person involved and the risks can be managed within the education setting's pastoral support and disciplinary framework and, if appropriate, their local network of support.

The UK Council for Child Internet Safety has issued advice for schools on developing procedures for responding to sexting incidents which outlines the process in detail.

There is also departmental advice on Searching, Screening and Confiscation which states that schools have the power to search pupils for devices, search data on devices and delete any indecent images. For more information, see our page on School powers to search and screen pupils.

What should I do if my child has been involved in sexting?

If you find out that your child has been sexting, you can contact the Internet Watch Foundation, who can search for explicit images or videos of your child and remove them.

It would also be advisable to have an honest conversation with your child about the incident, to find out what led to it and how can it be avoided in the future.

Some of the reasons for sexting are:

peer pressure;

feeling pressured to sext as a way of proving their sexuality;

as a result of harassment, threats or blackmail;

seeking someone's approval;

long distance/ online relationships, where there is a desire to have a sexual relationship;

confidence in their looks, which they want to share with other people.

Tips for parents

Discuss with your child the consequences of sexting.

Monitor your child's online presence, especially social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter.

Explain that the images can land in the wrong hands, and warn them against online predators.

Encourage your child to open up about receiving or sending provocative images without your supervision.

Remind you child that there are essential and personal information that they should never share online such as address, photos and video footage.

Set clear rules about what the can and cannot do with their electronic devices

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This page provides information on the law relating to child sexting or sharing indecent images or texts of children and contains advice on what to do if your child has been involved in sexting.

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Gangs can exploit children into smuggling drugs for them, such as through County Lines. If you are aware of this happening, contact the police immediately. Watch the video to find out more about County Lines

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Video Production Company - Magneto Films Ltd.

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Watch this video released by the Home Office designed to raise awareness of what hate crime consists of.

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Can you go a day without commenting on your own, or someone else's, appearance? This can do wonders for your mental health!

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Eating disorders are harmful and if you feel at risk, or know someone who struggles, make sure you speak to an adult you trust. Check out https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/ for lots of advice.

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Everyone is different and being different should be celebrated, not discriminated against!

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We Are All Different - and THAT'S AWESOME! | Cole Blakeway | TEDxWestVancouverED

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Learn about what democracy is here!

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The word democracy describes a form of government. The word comes from two Greek words that mean “rule by the people.” In a democracy the people have a say in how the…

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Learn about the rule of law and the difference between civil and criminal law.

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What are rules and laws, and what's the difference between them? Find the answers to those questions, handy resources and more with our fantastic Teaching Wiki.

Rules and Laws

Rules and laws are put in place throughout society by governments, police, places of work, parents, teachers, and individual citizens, to regulate behaviour and avoid conflict or harm.

Although they both essentially aim to achieve the same goal of a fair, safe society, there are differences between the two. The biggest of these differences is consequence.

Throughout this Teaching Wiki, we will define the contrasts between rules and laws, how they are applied and why they are important. Plus, we will provide you with a number of useful teaching resources designed to help educate your children on this important topic!

What are Rules?

Rules are a set of instructions and consequences that are established to help individuals, and whole communities, live and work together harmoniously. You're likely to find rules in schools, workplaces and in the home. They're subjective to the person/group creating them, meaning they may vary depending on circumstance or other variables, such as personal values and morals.

As rules are personal, the consequences of breaking them are flexible and varied. For example, Primary School A might share a common rule with Primary School B - no footballs at playtime. If this rule is broken at Primary School A, the consequence may be that the ball is confiscated and nothing more. However, if this rule is broken at Primary School B, the consequence may be that the ball is confiscated and the child must stay with the playtime supervisor until it's time to go back in for class. The same applies to different families when it comes to homework or chores.

Rules can also be used by an individual to set personal boundaries. For example, a person might set a rule that they do not hold hands on a first date. Again, the consequences of this rule will vary, but the rule is established for personal safety and comfort.

What are Laws?

Much like rules, laws are a set of instructions put in place to keep people safe, maintain order in society through good behaviour, and protect rights and property. The difference is that the consequences of breaking a law are much more severe.

Laws are created and enforced by the government and/or the police, and hold everyone to the same standard of accountability. The consequences of breaking the law are usually already well established and do not vary (except for some cases, determined by the court). As breaking the law is classed as a criminal offence, punishment can come in the form of fines, community service or even jail time.

If an individual breaks the law, the government may create a document of the offence called a 'criminal record'. Criminal records are kept public, allowing employers, banks and education establishments to view them, which can limit an individuals opportunities within society.

There are also many types of law (contract, banking, corporate, environmental, civil rights etc), and the specifics may change between countries and continents. However, International Law is a set of legally binding and punishable rules that are commonly accepted between different nations across the world.

Civil Law and Criminal Law

In the British Legal System, civil law is concerned with the rights and responsibilities of citizens dealing with other citizens, such as:

The courts award compensation to the winning party of the dispute, paid by the losing party.

Criminal law deals with crimes regarded as serious offences against society. This includes:

In criminal law, the consequences usually results in heavier punishments such as fines and jail time. Sentencing people in this way serves to prevent people from reoffending.

Why are Rules and Laws Important?

Rules and laws are important because they help to obtain and continue a balanced level of safety, fairness, order and justice.

Rules help us learn and prepare for living in wider society. They form the basic values and morals of our legal system, such as harming others, stealing, lying and wasting resources, which we are held legally accountable for as soon as we reach young adulthood.

Laws are not only in place to bring order to ordinary citizens, there are areas of law that cover commercial and business transactions, big corporate and even the government. They intend to make sure that, no matter how high their place in society, everyone is held accountable for criminal behaviour and corruption.

Are Rules and Laws Part of the Curriculum?

KS1 children are taught about the importance of rules, but, typically, law and the legal system are introduced in KS2. They are taught as a British Values or PSHE and Citizenship topic.

It's important for children to be exposed to rules and consequences in their homes and schools so that they learn to respect the boundaries of others and themselves. Learning about rules also teaches them the difference between right and wrong before they become legally responsible adults - this is particularly important, as the law is not there to teach, it is there to be enforced.

Understanding how the legal system works and the ways in which it aids society is a vital part of child development to prepare them for adult life. Twinkl is home to a wide range of teacher-made, informative resources, designed to aid busy parents and teachers in educating their children about rules, laws and good behaviour.

Check out these fantastic resources for KS1:

And there's plenty more to choose from! Take a look around using the Twink site search bar at the top of this page.

Careers in Law

At some point along their journey through education, one of your students might decide that they'd like to have a career in law one day. And it's entirely possible!

Nurturing their ambition and curiosity with a dose of insight can go a long way. There are many law-related careers to follow, and hundreds of law courses to choose from in higher education.

Here's a list of 5 different types of law-related positions to inspire your children:

1. Solicitor - Solicitors provide legal advice. The majority of solicitors work for a law firm or partnership.

2. Barrister - Barristers are consulted by solicitors when specialist advice or representation is needed in a court case. It is the barrister's job to persuade the judge in the favour of their client.

3. In-house Lawyer - A small number of barristers and solicitors go on to work for their local authority, the government or a company's legal department as an in-house lawyer. They work solely for their employer for any legal matters that might arise.

4. Police Officer - Police officers work in partnership with communities, serving to protect the public, maintain law and order and their property, prevent crime and improve the quality of life for all citizens.

5. Judge - It is down to the judges to decide cases and punishments. This is an extremely competitive position. Solicitors or barristers must have at least 5-7 years of experience for their application for a judicial role to be considered.

If you have any questions about this Teaching Wiki or our range of resources, we'd love to hear from you! Get in touch using the 'Ask us a teaching question?' box down below.

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What are Rules and Laws? - Informational - Twinkl Wiki

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What are rules and laws, and what's the difference between them? Find the answers to those questions, handy resources and more with our fantastic Teaching Wiki. Rules and laws are put in place throughout society by governments, police, places of work, parents, teachers, and individual citizens, to regulate behaviour and avoid conflict or harm.

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Learn about mutual respect and tolerance by watching this video.

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The British Values - Mutual Respect & Tolerance (3/4)

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Learn about individual liberty, as well as the other British Values, from this page!

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Mind offers lots of support for a range of different mental health conditions. Take a look at this page which offers support to students aged between 11-18.

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Information for young people on mental health and wellbeing

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If you’re struggling with how you’re feeling, it can be really scary and upsetting. Our information will help you find the support you deserve for your mental health.

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This website has links to live support sessions and ideas of how you can raise money for people suffering from depression and anxiety.

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National charity helping people with Anxiety - Anxiety UK

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Become a Member of Anxiety UK. We pride ourselves on being user led, with many on our staff and volunteer team having personal experience of anxiety.

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Check out these facts about smoking and vaping and how they both have a range of negative consequences on the body.

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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The use of e-cigarettes is unsafe for kids, teens, and young adults.

Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine. Nicotine is highly addictive and can harm adolescent brain development, which continues into the early to mid-20s.1

E-cigarettes can contain other harmful substances besides nicotine.

Young people who use e-cigarettes may be more likely to smoke cigarettes in the future.

Find Data on E-cigarette Use Among Youth

E-cigarettes are electronic devices that heat a liquid and produce an aerosol, or mix of small particles in the air.

E-cigarettes come in many shapes and sizes. Most have a battery, a heating element, and a place to hold a liquid.

Some e-cigarettes look like regular cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. Some look like USB flash drives, pens, and other everyday items. Larger devices such as tank systems, or "mods," do not look like other tobacco products.

E-cigarettes are known by many different names. They are sometimes called "e-cigs," "e-hookahs," "mods," "vape pens," "vapes," "tank systems," and "electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS)."

Using an e-cigarette is sometimes called "vaping."

Some e-cigarettes look like regular cigarettes, cigars, or pipes.
Some look like USB flash drives, pens, and other everyday items.

E-cigarettes produce an aerosol by heating a liquid that usually contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals that help to make the aerosol.

The liquid used in e-cigarettes often contains nicotine and flavorings. This liquid is sometimes called "e-juice," "e-liquid," "vape juice," or "vape liquid."

Users inhale e-cigarette aerosol into their lungs. Bystanders can also breathe in this aerosol when the user exhales it into the air.

E-cigarette devices can be used to deliver marijuana and other drugs.

News outlets and social media sites report widespread use of JUUL by students in schools, including classrooms and bathrooms.

JUUL is a brand of e-cigarette that is shaped like a USB flash drive. Like other e-cigarettes, JUUL is a battery-powered device that heats a nicotine-containing liquid to produce an aerosol that is inhaled.

All JUUL e-cigarettes have a high level of nicotine. According to the manufacturer, a single JUUL pod contains as much nicotine as a pack of 20 regular cigarettes.2

JUUL is one of a few e-cigarettes that use nicotine salts, which allow particularly high levels of nicotine to be inhaled more easily and with less irritation than the free-base nicotine that has traditionally been used in tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.

News outlets and social media sites report widespread use of JUUL by students in schools, including classrooms and bathrooms.

Approximately two-thirds of JUUL users aged 15 - 24 do not know that JUUL always contains nicotine.

Although JUUL is currently the top-selling e-cigarette brand in the United States, other companies sell e-cigarettes that look like USB flash drives. Examples include the MarkTen Elite, a nicotine delivery device, and the PAX Era, a marijuana delivery device that looks like JUUL.

Additional information about USB-shaped e-cigarettes and actions that parents, educators, and health care providers can take to protect kids is available at CDC's Infographic [PDF - 1.2MB]

Most e-cigarettes (vapes) contain nicotine-the addictive drug in regular cigarettes, cigars, and other tobacco products.

A CDC study found that 99% of the e-cigarettes sold in assessed venues in the United States contained nicotine.1

Some vape product labels do not disclose that they contain nicotine, and some vape liquids marketed as containing 0% nicotine have been found to contain nicotine.

Nicotine can harm the developing adolescent brain.2 The brain keeps developing until about age 25.

Using nicotine in adolescence can harm the parts of the brain that control attention, learning, mood, and impulse control.2

Each time a new memory is created or a new skill is learned, stronger connections - or synapses - are built between brain cells. Young people's brains build synapses faster than adult brains. Nicotine changes the way these synapses are formed.

Using nicotine in adolescence may also increase risk for future addiction to other drugs.2

When a person is dependent on (or addicted to) nicotine and stops using it, their body and brain have to get used to not having nicotine. This can result in temporary symptoms of nicotine withdrawal.

Nicotine withdrawal symptoms include irritability, restlessness, feeling anxious or depressed, trouble sleeping, problems concentrating, and craving nicotine.3 People may keep using tobacco products to help relieve these symptoms.4

Youth may turn to vaping to try to deal with stress or anxiety, creating a cycle of nicotine dependence. But nicotine addiction can be a source of stress.

What may start as social experimentation can become an addiction.

The most common reason U.S. middle and high school students give for trying an e-cigarette is "a friend used them." 5

The most common reason youth give for continuing to use e-cigarettes is "I am feeling anxious, stressed, or depressed." 5

Youth e-cigarette and cigarette use have been associated with mental health symptoms such as depression.9, 10

Yes. As long as a person stays quit, withdrawal symptoms will fade over time as the brain gets used to not having nicotine.

Scientists are still learning about the effects of quitting vaping on mental health. Quitting smoking cigarettes is associated with lower levels of anxiety, depression, and stress, as well as improved positive mood and quality of life.9

Scientists are still learning about the long-term health effects of e-cigarettes.

Some of the ingredients in e-cigarette aerosol could also be harmful to the lungs in the long-term. For example, some e-cigarette flavorings may be safe to eat but not to inhale because the gut can process more substances than the lungs.1

Defective e-cigarette batteries have caused some fires and explosions, a few of which have resulted in serious injuries.

Children and adults have been poisoned by swallowing, breathing, or absorbing e-cigarette liquid through their skin or eyes. Nationally, approximately 50% of calls to poison control centers for e-cigarettes are for kids 5 years of age or younger.

E-cigarette aerosol is NOT harmless "water vapor."

The e-cigarette aerosol that users breathe from the device and exhale can contain harmful and potentially harmful substances, including:

Nicotine

Ultrafine particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs

Flavorings such as diacetyl, a chemical linked to a serious lung disease

Volatile organic compounds

Cancer-causing chemicals

Heavy metals such as nickel, tin, and lead1

The aerosol that users inhale and exhale from e-cigarettes can expose both themselves and bystanders to harmful substances.

It is difficult for consumers to know what e-cigarette products contain. For example, some e-cigarettes marketed as containing zero percent nicotine have been found to contain nicotine.3

E-cigarettes come in various flavors, including fruit, candy, mint, and menthol.

A study from 2013-2014 showed that most youth who use e-cigarettes first start with a flavored variety, and flavors are the primary reason youth report using e-cigarettes.⁶

In 2023, most youth who reported using e-cigarettes used flavored varieties (89.4%). Among middle and high school students who currently used any type of flavored e-cigarette in 2023, the most commonly used flavors were fruit (63.4%), candy, desserts, or other sweets (35%), mint (27.8%), and menthol (20.1%).¹¹

On January 2, 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) finalized an enforcement policy that prohibits the sale of prefilled cartridge e-cigarettes in any flavor other than tobacco or menthol, unless authorized by FDA. FDA has since taken additional steps to prohibit certain companies from selling youth-appealing, flavored disposable e-cigarettes and flavored e-liquids without authorization.⁷

Several states and communities have restricted the sale of flavored tobacco products, including menthol-flavored products.⁸

E-cigarettes are also advertised using the same themes and tactics that have been shown to increase youth initiation of other tobacco products, including cigarettes. In 2021, approximately 76% of students reported exposure to tobacco product marketing through traditional sources and approximately 74% of students who used social media had seen e-cigarette-related posts or content.¹²

Widespread advertising for e-cigarettes, including via media for which advertising for conventional tobacco products is prohibited (e.g., TV), and the lower costs of some e-cigarettes relative to regular cigarettes has contributed to use among youth.¹

Many youth also report using e-cigarettes because they are curious about these products.¹

Many young people who use e-cigarettes also smoke cigarettes.1 There is some evidence that young people who use e-cigarettes may be more likely to smoke cigarettes in the future.

Specifically, a 2018 National Academy of Medicine report found that there was some evidence that e-cigarette use increases the frequency and amount of cigarette smoking in the future.4

E-cigarettes also can be used to deliver other drugs, including marijuana; in 2016, approximately one-third of U.S. middle and high school students who have ever used an e-cigarette reported using marijuana in the device.

But e-cigarette use among young people is still unsafe, even if they do not progress to future cigarette smoking.

E-cigarettes expose users to fewer harmful chemicals than burned cigarettes.1

But burned cigarettes are very dangerous, killing half of all people who smoke long-term.

The use of any tobacco product, including e-cigarettes, is unsafe for young people.

Yes. In August 2016, the regulatory authority of the FDA was extended to cover e-cigarettes through the agency's "deeming rule."

Through authority granted by the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act (FSPTCA), FDA has authority to develop regulations that address the manufacturing, marketing, and sale of e-cigarettes.

There are some strategies that the FDA does not have authority to implement, such as including e-cigarettes in smoke-free policies or increasing the minimum legal sales age for these products, unless directed to do so by Congress. However, the FSPTCA does not prevent states and communities from including e-cigarettes in smoke-free policies or from regulating the sale and distribution of e-cigarettes. These types of strategies can include further raising the minimum legal sales age, licensing retailers, implementing price policies, and restricting or prohibiting the sale of tobacco products.

Yes. In 2018, the FDA expanded its successful youth tobacco prevention campaign, "The Real Cost," to reach the more than 10 million youth aged 12-17 who have used e-cigarettes or are open to trying them. The campaign educates youth about the potential risks of using e-cigarettes.

The "Real Cost" reaches teens where they spend most of their time: in school and online. The campaign is also placing e-cigarette prevention materials in high schools across the nation, both in school bathrooms and on educational digital platforms accessed by students during the school day.

Heated tobacco products (HTPs) like IQOS and Eclipse, sometimes marketed as "heat-not-burn" technology, represent a diverse class of products that heat the tobacco leaf to produce an inhaled aerosol. They are different from e-cigarettes, which heat a liquid that can contain nicotine derived from tobacco.

HTPs are available in at least 40 countries and several have been authorized for sale in the United States by the FDA. In 2018, few U.S. adults (2.4% of all surveyed, including 6.7% of people who currently smoke surveyed) had ever used HTPs. In 2023, 1.0% of U.S. middle and high school students, combined, reported having used heated tobacco products in the past 30 days.¹¹

Scientists are still learning about the short-term and long-term health effects of HTPs, but the available science shows they contain harmful and potentially harmful ingredients. Youth use of any tobacco products, including heated products, is unsafe.

It is important that we continue to modernize proven tobacco prevention and control strategies to include newer products entering the market such as HTPs.

Talk to your child or teen about why e-cigarettes are harmful for them. It's never too late.

Set a good example by being tobacco-free and ensure that your kid is not exposed to the secondhand emissions from any tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.

If you use tobacco, it's never too late to quit. For free help, visit smokefree.gov or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW.

Talk to your child or teen about why e-cigarettes are harmful for them. It's never too late.

Get the Talk With Your Teen About E-cigarettes [PDF - 5.2MB] tip sheet for parents. Start the conversation early with children about why e-cigarettes are harmful for them.

Let your child know that you want them to stay away from all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, because they are not safe for them. Seek help and get involved.

Set up an appointment with your child's health care provider so that they can hear from a medical professional about the health risks of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.

Speak with your child's teacher and school administrator about enforcement of tobacco-free school grounds policies and tobacco prevention curriculum.

Encourage your child to learn the facts and get tips for quitting tobacco products at Teen.smokefree.gov.

Fact Sheet for Educators:

Conversation Card for Educators:

1. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Smoking Cessation: A Report of the Surgeon General. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Office on Smoking and Health, 2020 [accessed 2022 April 4].

2. Truth Initiative Mental Health x Vaping Headline Survey Internal Data - August 2021.

3. Gentzke AS, Wang TW, Cornelius M, et al. Tobacco Product Use and Associated Factors Among Middle and High School Students - National Youth Tobacco Survey, United States, 2021. MMWR Surveill Summ 2022;71(No. SS-5):1-29. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.ss7105a1.

4. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The Health Consequences of Smoking-50 years of Progress: A Report of the Surgeon General. Atlanta, GA: US Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Office on Smoking and Health, 2014.

5. Birdsey J, Cornelius M, Jamal A, et al. Tobacco Product Use Among U.S. Middle and High School Students - National Youth Tobacco Survey, 2023. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2023; 72(44);1173-1182.

6. Cooper M, Park-Lee E, Ren C, Cornelius M, Jamal A, Cullen KA. Notes from the Field: E-cigarette Use Among Middle and High School Students - United States, 2022. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2022;71:1283-1285. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7140a3

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Quick Facts on the Risks of E-cigarettes for Young People

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Learn quick facts on the risks of e-cigarettes for kids, teens, and young adults, including how they work, why nicotine is unsafe, what is in e-cigarette aerosol, and resources for parents to prevent their child from using e-cigarettes or help them stop.

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Check out this website which tells you about the different types of discrimination that LGBTQ people can face and what to do if you, or someone else, experiences discrimination.

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What is Sexual Orientation discrimination? We explain its definition, areas covered and what constitutes discrimination.

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If you are affected by any of this, make sure you speak to your form tutor, a safeguarding lead or a teacher you trust. 

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If you are affected by any of this, make sure you speak to your form tutor, a safeguarding lead or a teacher you trust. 

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Trigger warning. Read the information to find out more about self harm.

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What are the signs of sexual exploitation?

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What is coercive control?

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Hidden in Plain Sight - Coercive Control and Domestic Abuse

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How can we deal with cyber-bullying and trolling?

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Due to the sensitive nature of the content of this film, it is important to have a class contract that outlines the expected behaviour when discussing sensitive issues, to know your class and have information available for any students who may be affected by the story. Students could start by discussing and defining some of the terms that come up in this film, such as banter, trolling and algorithms. After watching the film students could rewrite their definitions. Students could also start the lesson responding to the question "does it matter what we say online?" Alternatively, students could hot seat Carney and his friends to find out more about their feelings and motivations. This film could also be a good starting point for discussing mental health and how to identity problems and get help. Links to new statutory RSE and HE curriculum (secondary) Respectful relationships, including friendships: Pupils should know about different types of bullying (including cyberbullying), the impact of bullying and how and where to get help. Online and media: Pupils should know what to do and where to get support to report material or manage issues online. Mental wellbeing: Pupils should know how to critically evaluate when something they do or are involved in has a positive or negative effect on their own or others' mental health. Internet safety and harms: Pupils should know how to identify harmful behaviours online (including bullying, abuse or harassment) and how to report, or find support, if they have been affected by these behaviours. This short film could be used across other subject areas such as citizenship, English or computing. In citizenship this film could form a stimulus to discuss the law about bullying and trolling, where students might consider what laws there should be to deal with this kind of issue and what the punishment should be. In English students could consider the value of autobiography and telling stories to make sense of events. Whilst in computing the focus could be on algorithms and how they work to create what you see online.

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PSHE / Citizenship / Computing GCSE: Trolling and Cyber-Bullying

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Due to the sensitive nature of the content of this film, it is important to have a class contract that outlines the expected behaviour when discussing sensitive issues, to know your class and have information available for any students who may be affected by the story.

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Is this coercive control? Videos for ages 15+

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These films are intended for use with students over 15. The films contain content which some people may find upsetting; students may also have had direct or indirect experience of a controlling relationship. You should read this guidance and view each video before exploring it with students, considering its suitability for your cohort with care.

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What does freedom mean to you?

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Who should be responsible for enforcing human rights?

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What are the universal human rights? - Benedetta Berti

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What is FGM?

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How knowingly/unknowingly do you share your information online?

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How would you define prejudice and discrimination?

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How did prejudice and discrimination influence the extremism that led to the Holocaust?

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Holocaust Memorial Day: Remembering the victims of all genocides

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Can you name them all?

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What characteristics does a good leader possess?

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What causes addiction? Is there a stigma towards addiction in society?

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National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA/NIH)

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Breaking Down the Stigma of Addiction: A Witness’ Story Through Art

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How does the media and social media impact our own self perception?

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Amber Jane Butchart, a professional fashion and beauty analyst, and Raphael Babalola, who runs a healthy lifestyle company, investigate why companies usually use super skinny, super tall, super young white girls in their marketing campaigns.
The programme looks at what size 'real' women are and reveals that men actually like women in all shapes, sizes and colours.

Amber and Raphael look at new research that suggests women would still spend money on clothing if advertisers used 'real-sized' models.

So who is to blame for the promotion of non-diverse, over-airbrushed images that can make people feel inadequate?

This clip is from the series Your Body, Your Image.

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PSHE KS3 / GCSE: Fashion and beauty industry influences on advertising

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Amber Jane Butchart, a professional fashion and beauty analyst, and Raphael Babalola, who runs a healthy lifestyle company, investigate why companies usually use super skinny, super tall, super young white girls in their marketing campaigns. The programme looks at what size 'real' women are and reveals that men actually like women in all shapes, sizes and colours.

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Why should be not "put people in boxes?"

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What help is available for someone who finds them self in this situation?

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Rubie's Story - Forced Marriages and Honour Based Abuse

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What can you do to protect yourself against drink spiking?

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Sarah Buckle woke up in hospital after a suspected spiking incident in a Nottingham nightclub in September.

The 19-year-old spoke to Breakfast's Naga Munchetty about finding a pin prick wound on her hand.

She said since she spoke about her experience, others have got in touch to share what happened to them, and said she still feels "incredibly nervous" when out at night.

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'I was carried out of the club and taken to hospital'

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Sarah Buckle woke up in hospital after a suspected spiking incident in a Nottingham nightclub in September. The 19-year-old spoke to Breakfast's Naga Munchetty about finding a pin prick wound on her hand. She said since she spoke about her experience, others have got in touch to share what happened to them, and said she still feels "incredibly nervous" when out at night.

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Why is global warming such a serious issue? What can we do to help?

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UN scientists say it's 'now or never' to limit global warming - BBC News

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What are the protected characteristics?

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What is peer to peer abuse? Can this happen if you do not live with someone?

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What is a gang? What are the dangers of getting involved in a gang?

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Teachers TV: Secondary PSHE - Violence and Abuse - Gangs

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What can you do to prioritise your own mental health?

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Why you should take a break: Prioritizing mental health in schools | Hailey Hardcastle | TEDxSalem

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Dr. Lee Crumpler, the first female, black doctor in the United States

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Many Black women have contributed to the development of the medical sciences throughout history, though often, their names have remained little known. In this Special Feature, we celebrate the life and achievements of one of these Black pioneers: Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler.

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Pictured is a group of formerly enslaved individuals in 1861. Dr. Crumpler is known, in part, for her work providing healthcare to formerly enslaved people.
MPI/Stringer/Getty Images

Writing in a BMJ Opinion piece, Dr. Nycole K. Joseph, a neurologist-in-training, describes her experience of racism as a Black physician practicing in the United States.

"My Blackness entered the room first, and my other attributes followed," she writes.

"Although a career in healthcare is rewarding, it poses particular engrained challenges for people from diverse ethnic backgrounds. Black professionals often cite experiencing isolation, lack of representation within departments and in leadership positions, as well as inadequate mentoring and sponsorship to assist with career advancement and decision making," Dr. Joseph explains.

Systemic racism and anti-Blackness continue to affect both patients and medical practitioners in the U.S. and elsewhere. Often ignored is the fact that Black scientists and physicians have been among the pioneers of medical science.

In this Special Feature, we celebrate the life and achievements of one such pioneering figure: Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler.

Dr. Lee Crumpler, née Rebecca Davis, was born on February 8, 1831, in Delaware to Absolum Davis and Matilda Webber.

There is little information about her early years, though historians agree that she spent much of her childhood in the care of an aunt in Pennsylvania.

In the introduction to the book she later wrote - A Book of Medical Discourse: In Two Parts (1883) - Dr. Lee Crumpler recalls that it was the time spent with her aunt when she was little that encouraged her to pursue medical training.

This aunt had been a healing presence in her community, which left a strong impression on the doctor in her youth:

"Having been reared by a kind aunt in Pennsylvania, whose usefulness with the sick was continually sought, I early conceived a liking for, and sought every opportunity to be in a position to, relieve the sufferings of others."

Between 1852 and 1860, Dr. Lee Crumpler lived and worked in the Charlestown neighborhood of Boston, MA, where she practiced as a nurse, assisting various doctors in the area.

"From these doctors I received letters commending me to the faculty of the New England Female Medical College, whence, 4 years afterward, I received the degree of doctress of medicine," she writes.
Article highlights:
Historians now recognize Dr. Lee Crumpler as the first Black woman to have received the degree of medical doctor in the U.S.

The New England Female Medical College was established in 1848, as the Boston Female Medical College, primarily to train women in obstetrics and gynecology.

Its first cohort numbered 12 female students, including Dr. Lee Crumpler, and all graduated.

Dr. Lee Crumpler's achievement was all the more impressive given that, at the time when she studied for her degree, there were only approximately 300 female doctors in the country, out of a total of 54,543 physicians. Every female doctor at the time was white.

The college closed in 1873, without granting the title of "doctress of medicine" to another Black woman.

After the Thirteenth Amendment, which abolished slavery in the U.S., was ratified in December 1865, the doctor moved to Richmond, VA, to work for the Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned Lands.

This institution, also known as the "Freedmen's Bureau," was established after the conclusion of the Civil War to offer relief support, primarily to formerly enslaved people.

In Sick from Freedom, Prof. Jim Downs notes that Dr. Lee Crumpler was not only the first Black woman to receive a medical degree in the country but also "the only known Black female doctor employed by the bureau."
Her work caring for formerly enslaved Black people was crucial - at the time, few white doctors would see Black patients.
Dr. Lee Crumpler writes of her work in Richmond:

"[It was] a proper field for real missionary work, and one that would present ample opportunities to become acquainted with the diseases of women and children. During my stay there, nearly every hour was improved in that sphere of labor."

Prof. Downs notes that writing and publishing A Book of Medical Discourse was part of Dr. Lee Crumpler's way of fighting the racist notion that Black Americans were more likely to fall ill and die because they were somehow physiologically different from white Americans.

The book, he writes, was "a sophisticated analysis of disease causation, which was at odds with the bureau's reaction to the smallpox epidemic " that ravaged communities of formerly enslaved Black people.

Dr. Lee Crumpler saw that Black communities had an increased risk of such epidemics due to precarious living conditions and understood that infections could be prevented by taking appropriate measures.
She wrote her book to advise and instruct Black women directly about safeguarding their own health, as well as that of their children.
Her dedication reads, "To mothers, nurses, and all who desire to mitigate the afflictions of the human race, this book is prayerfully offered."

She ends the introduction by stating, "My chief desire in presenting this book is to impress upon somebody's mind the possibilities of prevention."

Dr. Lee Crumpler got married twice, first to Wyatt Lee, whom she wed on April 19, 1852, in Charlestown. Lee passed away in 1863.

Around the time that she graduated from the New England Female Medical College, the doctor married Arthur Crumpler, who outlived her. There are reports that the couple had one child, Lizzie Sinclair Crumpler.

After working assiduously for the bureau, by 1869, Dr. Lee Crumpler had moved back to Boston, where she cared for patients in the local Black community.
She lived at 67 Joy Street, in Beacon Hill, an address in a predominantly Black neighborhood, where she treated patients regardless of whether they were able to pay her.
"At the close of my services in [Richmond], I returned to my former home, Boston, where I entered into the work with renewed vigor, practicing outside and receiving children in the house for treatment; regardless, in a measure, of remuneration," she wrote.

Dr. Lee Crumpler died in Boston on March 9, 1895, at the age of 64, and she is buried in the city's Fairview Cemetery.

Despite her enormous achievements and dedication, much remains unknown about the life of this trailblazer for Black women in medicine.

For example, historians are still unable to identify with any certainty a picture of Dr. Lee Crumpler. While she is misidentified in various photographs online, her true image remains a mystery.

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Many Black women have contributed to the development of the medical sciences throughout history, though often, their names have remained little known. In this Special Feature, we celebrate the life and achievements of one of these Black pioneers: Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler. Writing in a BMJ Opinion piece, Dr. Nycole K.

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Black female role models in history

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1. Mary Seacole - Nurse & Entrepreneur

Illustration: Vashti Harrison

Mary Seacole was born in the British colony of Jamaica and from an early age, she learned nursing and healing from her mother, who used traditional remedies and kept a boarding house for invalid soldiers. As a young woman, Mary explored the Caribbean, visiting Cuba, Haiti and the Bahamas all on her own - a bold and unusual step, especially for a woman of colour. In 1853, during the Crimean War, Mary wanted to enlist as a military nurse to help the wounded, but her application to the British War Office was refused. She did not let that stop her. She travelled to the Crimean Peninsula with a friend and set up a hotel and boarding house - the British Hotel - behind enemy lines. She used her savvy business skills to provide hot food, drinks and clothes for wounded soldiers. Mary bravely nursed soldiers on the battlefield as well as in the British Hotel. Her dedication to the servicemen was unmistakable - she formed a strong bond with the soldiers she helped. Many years later, when she faced financial troubles many of them banded together to raise money for her. On 30 June 2016, a statue of her was unveiled at St Thomas's Hospital in London, honouring her as a pioneer in her field. She is remembered as a brave and fearless leader!

2. Rosa Parks - Activist

Illustration: Vashti Harrison

Growing up in Montgomery, Alabama, Rosa Parks detested the rules of segregation: having to drink from different water fountains or being barred from whites-only restaurants. In the American South, rules on buses were particularly harsh: a black person had to enter through the front door, pay the fare, leave the bus and then get on again through a rear door. Each bus had three sections: a whites-only section at the front, a black section at the back and an overflow section in the middle. If the middle was empty, a black person could sit there. But if one white person wanted to sit in the middle, every black person would have to get up and stand in the back of the bus. In December 1955, after a long shift at work, Rosa waited for a bus with empty seats, and finally got one with a seat in the overflow section. But when the white section became full, Rosa and others were asked to move. Enough was enough for Rosa. She refused to relinquish her seat. Rosa was arrested and jailed. Rosa's protest caught the attention of the whole country. Martin Luther King Jr called for a boycott of all public transport and The Montgomery Bus Boycott was a key event of the Civil Rights Movement and set off a chain reaction of protests across the United States. The boycott was ultimately successful. In 1956, the bus system became integrated!

3. Shirley Bassey - Jazz Singer

Illustration: Vashti Harrison

From a young age, Shirley's big voice was unmistakable. She did not always find encouragement at school, but she was certainly praised by her family, from whom she got her singing talent and strong will. But life was not easy at home. Racial discrimination was a constant issue, and Shirley's family struggled with extreme poverty. Getting food on the table was a daily concern and Shirley had to leave school at the age of sixteen to start work in a factory. Still passionate about music, she continued to sing in her spare time, performing at pubs and clubs after work and at weekends. It was only a matter of time before her big voice got her noticed. At nineteen she was discovered by her soon-to-be manager, Michael Sullivan. Together they developed her signature glamorous look and she released her first few singles. Shirley's big break came in 1964 when she recorded the title track for the James Bond film, Goldfinger. Her booming voice filled cinemas all over the world during the opening credits of one of the year's biggest movies. It launched her on the international stage and her voice became forever linked with one of the most famous Bond films. She went on to sing the title tracks for other Bond films - Diamonds Are Forever and Moonraker. These landmark songs, along with her singles 'Big Spender' and 'I Am What I Am', helped to establish her career and her glamorous vibe. She was the voice of Bond and became synonymous with cool and elegance.

4. Tessa Sanderson - Javelin Thrower & Heptathlete

Illustration: Vashti Harrison

Tessa moved to Britain when she was only nine years old. Swapping the tropical Caribbean for an English city might seem a scary move but, helped by her love of sport, Tessa quickly made Wolverhampton her home. She joined the local club, where she showed a lot of promise in the javelin and other heptathlon events. She was a rising star on the field and by the age of sixteen had already won her first javelin championship. By 1976 she had earned her spot in her first Olympics Games. Meanwhile, she also participated in the Commonwealth Games - in the heptathlon, an event with seven elements (100-metre hurdles, high jump, shot put, 200 metres, long jump, javelin throw and 800 metres), and in 1981 she became the top British woman heptathlete. Tessa's biggest moment came in 1984 when she won a gold medal for Great Britain at the Olympics in Los Angeles. This made her the first British woman to win Olympic gold in the heptathlon, and the first black British woman to win an Olympic gold.

5. Dr Mae Jemison - Engineer, Physician & Astronaut

Illustration: Vashti Harrison

As a child, Mae loved reading, especially books about science and astronomy. By the time she was in nursery school, she knew she wanted to become a scientist. This, however, did not keep her from other passions. Mae also wanted to be a dancer, and throughout her youth, she studied every type of dance. In the 1970s Mae read chemical engineering and African American studies. When she learned about Dr Martin Luther King Jr, she saw his work as a call to action to help people, so after graduating, she decided to become a doctor. She joined the Peace Corps in 1983 and travelled to West Africa on a two-year programme to provide medical assistance to those in need. After returning, she saw major changes taking place at NASA. Seeing the actress Nichelle Nichols play Lieutenant Uhura in the TV show Star Trek inspired her to apply to NASA. In 1987 Mae became the first black woman in the astronaut training programme, and a few years later she flew into orbit - as the first African American woman in space.

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5 inspirational female role models from black history

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Mary Seacole was born in the British colony of Jamaica and from an early age, she learned nursing and healing from her mother, who used traditional remedies and kept a boarding house for invalid soldiers. As a young woman, Mary explored the Caribbean, visiting Cuba, Haiti and the Bahamas all on her own - a bold and unusual step, especially for a woman of colour.

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Find out more about what Black History Month is and why we celebrate it.

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Every February, people in the United States celebrate the achievements and history of African Americans as part of Black History Month.

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These people their black role models.

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Our Role Models: Reflections on Black Leadership