Newsletter #37 - Obtaining advice and support; making the most of your spring break; chores to do before going on vacation.

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TeenHelp Newsletter #37 - April 15th 2013 - http://www.teenhelp.org

Welcome to the TeenHelp Newsletter! Our Newsletter contains a lot of useful information about our current work, including updates to our site and services, work with our partners and affiliates, details of upcoming events, short bits of advice, interesting links and more!

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TeenHelp regularly makes changes to its site and services. Some of these are large and noticeable, and others are small and much less so, but each one contributes to the positive development of TeenHelp and how our users experience our community. Below are some of the most recent developments.

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Reduced FCRDs (April 6th 2013)

Starting from Saturday April 6th 2013 the number of Facilitated Chat Room Discussions (FCRDs) will be reduced to two per week. These will still take place every Saturday; one will start at 20:00 UK time (GMT/BST), and the other will start at 20:00 Central US time (CST/CDT). This will allow us to focus on delivering a smaller number of quality discussions and with more reliability.

http://www.teenhelp.org/chat/discussions/

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Welcoming a new Videos Officer (March 19th 2013)

We are pleased to welcome Kat (SerenitySmile) as TeenHelp's new Videos Officer. In her role Kat will be responsible for leading our Videos Team, reviewing and choosing videos and overall keeping our Videos section up to date with material to benefit our users. We wish Kat all the best in her new role.

http://www.teenhelp.org/videos/

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How to obtain advice or support (March 18th 2013)

The "How to obtain advice or support" guide in the Arrivals and Departures forum, which includes how to use several support features on TeenHelp, has been re-written, combining a couple of different documents together, and updated and expanded. This improvement was implemented in an effort to make information more accessible, rather than having to search in different locations. We hope that this will greater assist new users to the site in finding their way around and deciding which methods of support to access.

http://www.teenhelp.org/howto

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Latest articles (April 2nd 2013)

Our team of talented writers bring our users a constant stream of fresh articles to read each month. Articles are being published regularly, so be sure to check regularly to see what we're doing. Some of our latest additions include:

Coping with social anxiety at school

Social anxiety is something that can be frustrating to deal with, and school is one place where the problems can be exacerbated. This article explains a bit about what social anxiety is, and lists some ways in which you can start to deal with it while at school.

Complementary therapies

Most people have heard of some form of complementary therapy, such as acupuncture or reflexology, but may not know exactly what the therapies are or how they can help. This article gives a brief overview of some of these therapies, as well as some information about how they go together with other more traditional strategies.

Got plants? Reasons for a plant-based diet

In a world where most people grow up eating meat, it can be difficult to understand why someone might want to cut it out of their diet. If that sounds like you, read this article, which explains some of the arguments for plant-based (vegetarian or vegan) diets; you might even find that it changes your mind!

http://www.teenhelp.org/articles/

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Latest videos (April 2nd 2013)

Due to the hard work of our Videos Team, we continue to see many great additions to our Videos section. More videos are being added all the time, so check regularly to see all our favourite picks! Some of our latest additions include:

How to deal with losing a pet

Pets can be great companions and losing them can be devastating, especially if it is unexpected. This video describes some coping techniques and strategies for grieving for those of us who have lost a furry family member.

Applying for college

Applying for college can be a daunting task. This video provides general information about applying to a college, including some tips on how to write a good application essay. The video also explains some of the terms you may hear when applying for college, and would be beneficial to those who are not familiar with the process of higher education.

How to relax using deep breathing techniques

Deep breathing has been known to relax the body and mind. This video describes some deep breathing techniques, which is often useful in aiding relaxation for those who may feel stressed or anxious.

How to clean your room

If you want to learn how to clean your room efficiently, this concise, simple video will show you how, including what equipment to use for different areas of your bedroom.

http://www.teenhelp.org/videos/latest/

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TeenHelp works with a range of different organisations and websites in order to help and educate young people. Below is a selection of some of them. For a full list of the organisations we work with, please visit our Resources page.

http://www.teenhelp.org/resources/

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This I Believe

This I Believe is a website featuring essays in audio and written form, which have been shared by people worldwide, from all walks of life, on the topics that are important to them. The essays cover a wide range of subject areas, including education, family, love, music, science, sports, work and much more. This is a great resource for learning about what other people are passionate about and potentially finding some inspiration for your own lives.

http://www.thisibelieve.org

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Each month we share small bits of practical advice that you can implement to improve your life or that of others.

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How to make the most out of your spring break

The spring break may come around quickly, but it is often over just as fast. If this time last year you were left thinking how fast the time flew by, here are some tips on how you can make your spring break productive and fun.

• Make a list of all the things that you want to achieve. It is often easier to figure out how to fit everything in to your busy schedule when it is written down.
• Prioritise! Chances are, you will not be able to fit everything you want to do into the short time that you have. Decide which activities are most important to you and schedule time for those first. Use the remaining time for the activities that are a little less important to you.
• If your teachers have assigned any work over break, try to get it done at the beginning. As tedious as it is going to seem, completing your assignments at the beginning will allow you to enjoy the rest of your break without stressing about the homework that you still have to do.
• Make time to relax. The purpose of the spring break is to give yourself a respite from your busy life. Of course you should do the things that you want to do, but take a day for yourself. Watch movies on Netflix, lay out by the pool, or read a good book. Do something for you! You deserve it, after all.

http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f219-lifestyle/

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Before going on vacation

If you are thinking about going on vacation, be prepared to do a few chores before you travel, to keep the stress to a minimum for when you return. Here are a few tips to make your home-coming as pleasant as possible.

• Go through every room, clearing all visible rubbish, and take out the garbage.
• Check your refrigerator and try to eat any perishable foods before you leave; if that is not possible throw out any foods that might spoil while you are on holiday, for example, milk and meat.
• Unplug electrical items such as your toaster, oven, computer and television. As well as saving energy, your electrical items will be protected if there is a thunderstorm.
• Get up-to-date with your laundry. Place fresh towels in your bathroom, and lay clean sheets and make your bed. There is nothing better than relaxing in a clean bed after a vacation.
• Water houseplants; for plants that require more water, place the pot in a shallow dish of water to allow the plant to soak up the water it needs. Don't forget to water garden plants as well.

http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f222-travel-moving/

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How to train your dragon

Your parents finally let you get a dragon! Let's face it, dragons don't purr, they don't cuddle and don't fetch. Dragons are more complex. As a result, it is hard to know how to train them. This tip is meant to give you tips on how to effectively train your new found friend!

• Dragons tend to release their negative emotions through fire, because dragons do breathe fire. When you sense your dragon becoming agitated, give them a lollipop. This will help keep their minds focused on something other then their anger or frustration. If a lollipop does not work, and they scorch your hair, a proper punishment would be to firmly tell them "No!". Then proceed to take away their favourite toy.
• Dragons thrive on routine. Have a daily routine in place for your dragon. For example, after they have their breakfast, take them on a ride or walk (depending on if they have wings or not). Afterwards, enjoy a nice nap and have some lunch. Since dragons need plenty of exercise, make sure you are taking them on their ride or walk three times a day. Remember, the more time they spend laying around, the more hyperactive and bad-tempered they will become.
• The pets are, no doubt, very tough looking creatures. Their scales are tough and hard, they have spikes all over their back, and they breathe fire. They may look mean, but that is just a stereotype. Make sure your dragon has a few soft toys to play with, as this will help with their temperament.
• Dragons are much like humans in the sense that they like to hear positive reinforcement. When your pet does something good, or behaves well, reward them with a treat. They particularly like lollipops, bubble gum, and small animals.
• We all know that the best of dragons know fun tricks. The question is, how do you teach them? First, determine what tricks you want your dragon to know. Like already mentioned, dragons like positive reinforcement, so be sure to let them know how well they are performing. When saying a command, be firm and short. For example: "Sit!", "Stay!". Use various hand motions that they can catch on to. Teaching tricks takes time, so be patient and practice often.

http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f119-pets/

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A lot of content is posted to TeenHelp every single day, from threads to articles, social groups to albums. But it is difficult for even the most veteran user to keep on top of it all, so we have selected a few items from among the masses that we thought were interesting to draw your attention to.

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Threads

Morning-after pill now available without prescription
The morning-after pill (also refered to as Plan B) is now available to people of all ages, prescription free. It can be hard to get your hands on these, but now it should be easier. Check out this thread to read about the details.
http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f38-c...tion-all-ages/

Bye bye self-harm!
When self-harm has been your only coping mechanism, it is hard to let go of it. This user has found a reason to let go of self-harm. This thread can inspire you to find your own reasons!
http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f30-r...bye-self-harm/

Do you let your disability get in the way of your life?
Are you affected by a disability? Do you let it affect your daily life? It is easy to feel alone when you are constantly having to deal with a disability. Connect with others like you here.
http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f122-...way-your-life/

Why did your eating disorder start?
Why did your eating disorder start? It can be comforting to share your story, as well as read about other people's stories.
http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f15-e...isorder-start/

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Blogs

Feeling grateful
TeenHelp has helped many people to feel less alone, and more supported. This user expresses her gratitude towards the site, and to all the users who take part.
http://www.teenhelp.org/blogs/girly....ling-grateful/

Wonderful morning
No matter what anyone says, you are a beautiful person. Sometimes life can suck, but remember that you are amazing. Read this when you are having a bad day, and it could help!
http://www.teenhelp.org/blogs/calvin...erful-morning/

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Social Groups

Pregnancy and Parenting
Are you a parent, currently pregnant, or hoping to become pregnant? If so, join this group to receive support and advice, share your experiences, and make some friends along the way!
http://www.teenhelp.org/socialgroups...%3B+parenting/

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Albums

Pictures to make you smile
We all need a smile once in a while. This album is full of pictures that are sure to put a smile on your face.
http://www.teenhelp.org/albums/i_lik...ple%27s+walls/

Prom dresses
Prom season is here. Girls are looking for the perfect dress to wear. Check out this album for some dress ideas.
http://www.teenhelp.org/albums/%26%2...-prom+dresses/

Inspiring pictures
Inspiration is hard to come by when you are deep in depression. Here are some amazing pictures that will inspire you to keep fighting.
http://www.teenhelp.org/albums/chris...ring+pictures/

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Each month we feature a picture by one of our users. If you would like to see your picture here please contact us by replying to this Newsletter, emailing us at contact@teenhelp.org, or messaging our Newsletter Officer (Halcyon) on the website.

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Upcoming events

Discussion: Sexual health (Saturday April 20th 2013)

Looking after our sexual health is an important aspect of living a healthy lifestyle, and our general well-being; poor sexual health can have both physical and emotional consequences. Sexually Transmissible Infections (STIs) are on the rise among young people, so it's important to be aware of the risks of sex and how to protect yourself and your partners from them. Join this discussion to learn about safe sex, STIs, contraception, and more.

Discussion: Living with mental illness (Saturday April 27th 2013)

Although one in four people experience mental health problems, there is regrettably still a stigma attached to it, which prevents people from seeking help. Consequently, living with a mental illness can be a particularly isolating time. If you are concerned about your mental health, join this discussion to discuss day-to-day coping techniques, how to reach out to professionals and other aspects of living with mental illness.

Discussion: Rape and abuse (Saturday May 4th 2013)

Rape or abuse may feel impossible to talk about, but whether it is verbal, physical, or emotional, you are not alone! This discussion will connect you with others and help you to find ways to cope with what you are going through.

Discussion: Facing the challenges of growing up (Saturday May 11th 2013)

The transition from childhood, through adolescence and into adulthood can be very testing, as you seek to find greater independence and a balanced lifestyle, while also coping with the developmental, emotional and psychological changes to your mind and body. You are not alone, however. Join this discussion for advice on how to make the transition easier, and to learn from the experiences of others.

For more information about upcoming Facilitated Chat Room Discussions (FCRDs), and the times that these discussions will take place, please visit our FCRD page.

http://www.teenhelp.org/chat/discussions/

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Statistics

1 million posts!

TeenHelp's users have now made over one million posts on our Support Forums, asking questions and giving much support to one another.

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Donate to TeenHelp

In order to continue providing free services to young people around the world, TeenHelp requires a constant income of voluntary donations to support our regular costs. If you are able to, we ask that you please donate any money you can to us, even if it's only a few dollars.

http://www.teenhelp.org/donate/

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Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Tumblr

Our social networking pages are a great place to get a lot of high-quality information. We aim to connect you to interesting organisations, volunteering opportunities, events, news stories, pictures, videos, and more!

Facebook: http://www.teenhelp.org/facebook
Twitter: http://www.teenhelp.org/twitter
Tumblr: http://www.teenhelp.org/tumblr

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Editorial team

Newsletter Officer/Editor-in-Chief: Haley (Halcyon)
Assistant Editor: Chess (Syzygy.)
Assistant Editor: Lyndsee (City Lights.)
Assistant Editor: Sammi (Masquerade.)
Assistant Editor: Rianna (Starlight.)

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