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Is It Normal?
Puberty can be tough. But it's the only way to go from being a kid to being an adult.
Your body's changing like crazy! The only other time you grow and change as much and as fast is the first year after you're born.
It's happening to everyone. Not everyone experiences puberty at the same time or same age, but everyone will experience it at some time. Few people go through puberty without any problems. In fact, most kids you know are having the same concerns, feelings and experiences you are. Don't worry - it's all normal.
It doesn't last forever. Be patient. Understand what's happening to your body. Believe that you'll survive. Remember that nobody ever died from puberty. Think of it as a new step - a bigger, better you!
How You Look...
Everybody changes in a different way. However the changes are occurring in you, you'll probably have some worries or concerns:
• I'm growing too fast (or too slow).
• I feel too fat (or too thin).
• My arms (or legs or feet) feel too big.
• I've got zits.
• I hate my hair.
• Why do I smell bad?
• Why am I shorter (taller) than all my friends?
It may not always help to know it, but you're not alone. Most people experiencing the changes of puberty feel self-conscious about their changing bodies. It's normal, so try not to worry too much.
Help Yourself
It's normal to make more of your own choices during puberty. Some choices can make the puberty process a little easier:
Find something you like and are good at. It could be art, sports, acting, music, fixing things, the possibilities are limitless. Everyone is good at something - challenge yourself to find out what it is for you.
Stay active and eat well. This helps your body feel good and stay healthy.
Develop your own style. Wear clothes you like and feel good in. Find music, art, etc. that fits your personality. Decide who you want to be. Develop friendships with people who appreciate you for who you are.
Stay clean. You'll feel more confident if you know your breath, body and clothes are fresh and smell clean. Clean skin can help fight off problems with acne.
Have some fun. Figure out what is fun for you. Find others who agree. Try to avoid people who put you down or try to convince you to do things you do not want to do.
Figuring Out Your Feelings
Feelings can be strong and all over the place during puberty. It is not uncommon to be happy one minute and sad the next. It's normal and won't last forever. Some of these changes come from:
Hormones. Hormones cause your body to mature. They also can affect your feelings and emotions.
Body changes. Your body is changing in ways you can't control. It's normal to have feelings about that. Some people wish that their bodies would grow quicker, others wish that the whole process would just slow down. Unfortunately it is out of your control.
Independence. You're making more of your own choices and taking on more responsibilities. It is exciting - and scary all at the same time. Give yourself some time, it will get easier with practice.
Sexual feelings. You may be attracted to someone. These feelings may be different from the feelings you have for friends and family. These feelings can be both exciting and confusing. Dealing with feelings is a big part of learning to be an adult. Puberty gives you a lot of practice in making decisions and experiencing changes in emotions.
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