Adolescence starts around the age of 11 and can continue until the age of 19. It is a time in our lives when we are growing up, encountering lots of changes, and have many questions and concerns. The Youth Help Line is a service that can provide information and support regarding these changes which may include:

• An increase in height and weight, body hair, and acne
• In girls, this could be the start of the menstrual cycle (also known as periods)
• In boys, this could be a change in voice and muscular body changes
• Heightened feelings of anger, sadness, irritability, and tearfulness
• Taking on more responsibilities within the family or at school or college
• Establishing new interests in a whole range of things such as hobbies, friends, career paths, etc.
• Being involved in more negotiations with adults regarding your independence, rights, and freedom

How Can Calling the Youth Help Line Benefit Young People?

Sometimes coping with various changes can be difficult and we may at times need support and guidance. The youth help line is here to provide you with an opportunity to:

•  Gain information on your changing bodies and how to cope with these changes

•  Share your worries concerns and be acknowledged as a person

•  Access counseling in a safe and completely confidential setting

•  Receive impartial advice enabling and empowering you to make decisions

•  Be treated equally and fairly in an environment that accepts you for who you are

Who is the Youth Help Line Team?

The Youth Help Line has a team of dedicated counselors -- both male and female -- who are highly experienced in working with young people. Several of the counselors are trained psychologists and are specialists on a range of issues relating to the youth. We aim to provide our services to young people in a respectful, confidential and non-judgmental manner.

Views & Voices From Young People Accessing the Service

"I felt extremely confused about changes taking places in my body.. YHL explained things and helped me understand what was going on."

"I felt so angry and upset when my mother died. YHL was there in my hour of need just letting me talk and offload."

"When I was being bullied at school for being overweight, the YHL counselor gave me the confidence to stand up for myself."

"Talking to the YHL counselor made me realize that the bodily changes were normal."

"I found the advice I was given extremely helpful and I was able to decide which academic course to take."