Hi I'm in year 9 now and me and my 2 friends always joke around calling each other names but joking. We normally don't keep a name for long what we call each other but they've been calling me gay for about 6 months (I'm not) now and I'm sick of it, it really upsets me and I've got to the point where I really don't want to go to school and see them but they are my best friends and I really enjoy being with them :(
Sam
Hi there,
Friendships can be complicated and often when jokes are happening between groups of friends, other peoples feelings are not always obvious. Whats happening to you is bullying, and no one has the right to make you feel this way. It can feel worse when its people who you enjoy being with who are making you feel upset.
Bullying can happen in many different ways, through name calling, teasing, or somebody physically hurting you. You dont have to deal with it alone. You could try talking to your friends about how this is upsetting you and ask to stop the name calling. True friends should understand when they are hurting you and when something has gone beyond a joke.
People often have different views of how friendships should be. But friends should be supportive, respect you and not put you down. You do have a choice of the friendships that you have. Tell your friends about the kind of friendship you want to have with them.
Our counsellors are always here for you if you want to talk to somebody about this. We can help you to think about some ways of letting your friends know how they are making you feel. You can also check out our message boards where other young people share their experiences.
Take care for now, Sam
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