I am in year 9 and I have just finished my first week at school in the second term. I feel like now it is a perfect time to start wearing ear defenders. I am worried about what teachers and students would think of me wearing ear defenders. I am worried people will come up to me and ask why i am wearing them. If they do I will just say I don't like the noise. I am going to start wearing them. I think I am just going to start wearing them at break and lunch and the lessons I feel comfortable at first. I am really worried about what people would think of me. I am going to text my close friends this weekend to say I am wearing them. I have decided I am not going to care if people look at me weirdly. I know wearing ear defenders will help me cope with the loud noises. Please reply as soon as you can.
Sam
Hi there,
Wearing ear defenders can reduce noise and helps some people feel less overwhelmed in loud environments. It's positive that you're looking at ways to help yourself cope – your wellbeing and comfort is important.
If your school isn’t aware that this is what you’re planning, it’s important to let them know. You could ask someone at home to help you tell them or speak directly to a teacher or someone you trust in school. Telling the school will help them to support you to feel less overwhelmed. You can also make a plan with the school about when you can wear them.
It’s natural to feel worried about what others think, especially when you’re doing something new. It may take some time for others to adjust and some people might ask you about them. You don’t have to explain, but it might help to plan what you’ll do if someone asks. For example, you could just say you don’t like the noise.
It’s a great idea to let your close friends know as it gives them a chance to understand and ask any questions they may have. Perhaps let them know that you're feeling a bit worried about it too so they can support you.
You can also try things that help to build your confidence and self-esteem. The most important thing is that you feel happy in yourself and it's always okay to try things to take care of yourself. Sometimes, when we stop worrying about what others might think, it helps us feel more relaxed and comfortable in ourselves.
Take care,
Sam
Need help straight away?
You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.
Ask me a question
You can ask me about anything you want, there's nothing too big or small. I read every single letter but I can only answer a few each week. My replies are published here on my page.
