Counselling

Counselling takes place when a counsellor sees you in a private and confidential setting to explore a difficulty you are having or distress you may be experiencing. No one can properly be 'sent' for counselling, as you have to want to be a part of it.

Counselling does not involve giving advice or directing you to take a particular course of action but you can explore various aspects of your life and feelings and talk about them freely and openly with the possibility of making them easier to understand.

Youth Workers

Sometimes you feel like you want to talk to someone that knows you, but isn’t as involved in your life as your friends or family are. Youth workers can often take an objective perspective of your situation and help you work through your options. Remember, they are not trained counsellors, so may suggest you talk to someone else if they are not sure how to support you. They can also support you in finding further information.

Teachers

If there is something going on which is affecting you at school, it is important to let teachers know about it, especially if it is having an adverse effect on your academic work. As well as having responsibility for your learning, teachers also have a responsibility to ensure that you are healthy and happy while at school. If you do not feel you can approach your teacher, most schools have a school counsellor that you can talk to. You could also think about talking to an older pupil, such as a prefect or a mentor.

Telephone Help lines

For those people who wish to remain anonymous but want the comfort of knowing they are actually talking to a real person, help lines can be really useful. Genuine help lines will not ask you to disclose your identity, are not able to trace your call and many will not even show up on your phone bill.

Websites

There are websites about every subject under the sun. Do be careful which ones you take advice from. Always ensure that they are legitimate. We have recommended a number of websites for further information as we know these to be professional organisations with well qualified staff. Many of these websites have on-line real time counselling, which is great for those people who want to remain truly anonymous. Sometimes we find it easier to write about how we are feeling than talking about it.

Family and Friends

These are most people’s first port of call. They know you well, and will usually tell you honestly what they think. However, they may say something you don’t want to hear! There may also be something that you are too embarrassed or ashamed to talk to those you know. You may be worried that what you say will influence their opinion of you. If so, there are other places to go…

We often feel we need to be strong and that asking for help is a sign of weakness. We may be concerned that people will judge us, or think we are just being silly. If something is bothering you enough to make you want help, then it is serious enough to need help.

Who can you call?
Childline is a free help line for young people that has a free-call number. Dial 0800 1111 to speak to a councillor who can help you sort things out, anytime.

Remember, Streetwise are here for YOU. Call us for a chat.