Am I in a healthy relationship?
As you start to date or become physically attracted to another person, it is important that you have a safe and healthy relationship.
Here are some things to think about in your relationship:
- Do you and your partner have equal power?
- Do you both show flexibility when you talk or make decisions?
- Do you feel you own your partner or they own you?
- Do you encourage each other to be the best person possible?
- Do either of you manipulate or bully the other into doing things?
(Adolescent Health Working Group, 2010)
Healthy relationships are about balanced power, respect for each other's ideas, freedom to do things with friends and family, supporting each other to reach goals and being successful. Who do you think of when you think of a healthy relationship? Talk to your parents or other support people about their relationships and how to find that person who is right for you!
My friends are having sex what should I do?
Peer pressure is everywhere! Do not be pressured to have sex before you are ready. Not everything you hear is true. You might hear things like "Everyone is doing it" or "If you really loved me, you would do it". Everyone is NOT doing it. Relationships do not get better by having sex. There are many ways to show a person you care about them without having sex. Before you make the choice to have sex, talk to your partner, protect yourselves and be prepared
How should I talk to my parents about sex?
Your parents are the best source of support for you. Your friends have little more experience than you do and the Internet can be filled with misleading information. Your parents had the same questions and concerns as you at one time. It can be awkward at first. It can be embarrassing for both you and your parents.
Here are some tips about how to start this conversation:
- Practice what you want to ask or say.
- Time your talk when your parent is relaxed and not stressed.
- Pick a comfortable private place to talk.
- Be prepared with facts about what you do know.
- Be respectful, use a soft tone of voice and listen to what they are saying.
- Agree to disagree on some topics.
If you are too uncomfortable or it is not safe to talk to your parents, reach out to another adult you trust such as an aunt, uncle, grandparents, minister or counselor.
Am I ready to have sex?
Only you can answer that question!
Here are some things to think about:
- Have we talked about sex as a couple?
- Am I being pressured to have sex?
- Would I feel sorry afterward?
- Do I think my partner will stay with me if I have sex?
- Am I prepared with condoms and birth control?
- Do I feel comfortable to say no at any time and my partner will understand?
- Is my partner ready to have sex?
Having sex should be a decision you make as a couple, when you both feel ready and have discussed it together.