What to do if you’re worried about something (teens)

If you’re worried about ANYTHING related to your physical or mental health, periods or menstrual cycle:

Go and speak to someone.

If you don’t feel comfortable speaking your mum / dad / guardian for some reason, find an approachable teacher at school / college or find the Safeguarding Lead (ask in the school / HR office), who should always be available to support you. Take a friend with you, if this would help.

Check that they understand that you’d like a private conversation, if this is the case, and check you understand if, when and how they will share your concern with others.

If you have been tracking / charting your menstrual cycle, you may wish to share these with whomever you speak to – check that you’ve both talked about ways in which these will be kept private, if you want them to be.

You may need help from the GP and your parents / teacher can help you get an appointment (you can also ring and book one, at any age). If your school / college has a medical team (e.g. school nurse), you can also speak to them.

The Menstrual Cycle Support course for teens explores how best to understand your cycle so you are empowered to describe your symptoms to others and be able to ask for additional support. That said, don’t delay in getting professional help immediately if you’re concerned about anything as the course is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological care.

If you don’t feel you want / are able to speak to someone at home or school or you would like further support, we also recommend calling Childline , they’re there to listen, whatever your concern. They have a 24 hour line.

Call Childline : 0800 1111

You can contact Childline about anything you’re worried about.

Summary of tips of what to do if you’re worried about anything:

1. Speak to someone
At school / college / work the Designated Safeguarding Team are useful points of contact .

2. Ask for a private conversation
Make sure you understand if, when and how they will share your concern with others.

3. Get a doctor’s appointment Call your GP surgery and get an appointment. Your school’s medical team / school nurse (if you have one) can also support you with this. You can make a doctor’s appointment at any age (though they may ask you some questions on booking the appointment to make sure you’re safe).

4. Call Childline 0800 1111
If you’re not sure where else to turn or need further support, we recommend calling Childline – they are there to help 24/7, whatever your worry.

If you have a safeguarding concern that you don’t feel able to report to anyone at your school / college / GP surgery / work, you can report a safeguarding concern with us at Menstrual Cycle Support. You can read our full Safeguarding Policy here.