Ask Sam letter

Asker

To Sam

Make-up and self confidence

Well I'm 12 and I am worried about how I look. I have spots and I wear makeup to make myself feel better and make people like me more.

i get sort of bullied because I hear people whispering about my spots and how I look and it makes me upset and want to hide.

pepole I know wear layers and layers of makeup and they look pretty and are popular but I am the total opposite.

I am also not very developed and this makes me unhappy.

I feel embarrassed and unhappy and want to look different to feel different

thanks

Ask Sam

Sam

Hi there,

It’s not okay for people to bully you by saying things about you. Whether it’s to your face, or whispering behind your back, it’s wrong.

People can be bullied for all kinds of reasons. Sometimes people who bully pick a small thing that makes someone stand out and use that against them. This might be the way someone looks, or the kind of clothes they wear. It sounds like a few people have picked up on the fact that you are a little self-conscious about your spots and are using that to hurt you. Bullying can leave a person feeling bad, unhappy, lonely and worthless. This is exactly how they want you to feel.

It takes a lot of courage to write a letter to me. And I’m really pleased that you’ve decided that you want things to change. I’m wondering how you want to look different to feel different. And I’d like to give you a challenge. If you can find a way to feel differently about yourself, then that may change the way that you see yourself. Being confident and making the most of who you are can really make a statement to other people. This can include looks, personality, attitude and your behaviour.

Perhaps a starting point would be to work on building up your confidence and self-esteem. You can use some simple techniques to improve this area of your life. Having support is also important and it would be good if you felt able to speak to someone you trust in your life who may be able to help you. This could be someone like a family member, teacher or friend. 

I also want you to know that ChildLine counsellors are always there for you. The message boards are also a place where young people share thoughts and ideas and support each other.

Take care for now
Sam

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