Sex and Relationships

Going out with people is all part of growing up, and then maybe when the time is right you have sex for the first time - but only you know when you are ready.

Safe sex is vital and use contraception. A condom is best as it stops you getting pregnant and can also stop you catching an STI (Sexual Transmitted Infection, sometimes called an STD. These are passed on by having unprotected sex).

REMEMBER - the age of consent in the UK is 16 for hetrosexual, bisexual and homosexual sex.

Someone is self harming if they...

...have cuts, bruises or burns which are unexplained
...wear clothing to hide their injuries, even if it's hot outside.

Are you worried about a friend or sibling?

Try and listen to them and let them talk about how they feel. It can help some people if they can talk to others about their problems.
Tell them you are there for them. It can be supportive to know you have someone to go to if they want to talk.
Search for web sites which can help you. Try a popular search engine to find information on self-harming and organisations which can help you.
Encourage them to see their Doctor. They should be able to refer them to a counsellor, who works on a one-to-one basis. They're trained to listen.

Are you Self Harming?

You don't need to keep it a secret. Talk to someonoe you can trust. It can help to talk to someone about your problems.
Start writing a diary, so when you feel you need to self-harm, you can make a note of how you feel.
Keep your wounds clear or they might make you ill