Being a teenager is such an exciting time! It’s filled with exploration, discovery, and personal growth. But let’s keep it real—it can also feel confusing and overwhelming sometimes. That’s why having the right resources at your fingertips is super important!
This article is here to serve as your friendly guide, packed with helpful resources to make navigating the thrilling (and sometimes tricky) world of growing up a little easier!
Sexuality, Relationships, and Your Body:
- Amaze – Amaze makes learning about sex, relationships, and your body fun and informative. They use animation and clear explanations to answer all your questions for free!
- Scarleteen—This website is all about sex, health, and relationships for teens, written by teens. It covers a wide range of topics and offers a safe space to explore your questions.
- Power to Decide—Have you ever wondered where to get reliable information about sex and relationships? Power to Decide is a great resource with accurate information and tips for healthy relationships.
- Bedsider – From birth control to sex tips, Bedsider covers everything you need to know to make informed decisions about your sexual health.
- Sex, Etc.– This website is created by and for teens, offering a relatable and informative look at sex, health, and relationships.
Your Health and Legal Rights:
- Guide: Teenagers, Health Care, and the Law (English and Spanish) NYCLU – This New York Civil Liberties Union guide explains your rights regarding healthcare access and decision-making.
Finding Your Identity:
- It Gets Better– It Gets Better is a fantastic resource for LGBTQ+ youth. They offer support, guidance, and inspiration to help you embrace your identity and live your truth.
Healthy Relationships:
- Day One—Day One is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending dating abuse and domestic violence among NYC youth. It offers support services, legal advocacy, and educational resources.
NYC Specific Resources:
- Callen-Lorde Clinic: https://callen-lorde.org/transhealth/
- NYC Department of Health Sexual Health Clinics: https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/sexual-health.page
- NYC Health Map – Sexual Health Services: https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/services/health-map.page
School Resources:
- If you have questions about sexuality, relationships, or your health, you can contact Ms. Michelle for more information at 347-786-7521.
- Our school nurse can also answer your questions and provide confidential support. Please visit the school nurse’s office for more information.
Remember: You are not alone! Some people care about you and want to help. If you are experiencing relationship abuse, question your sexual orientation, or need someone to talk to, reach out to one of the resources listed above.
The best sex is safe sex! Ensure you’re educated to protect yourself and those you love.
Discovering your identity doesn’t have to be confusing. Discovering your identity can be a journey, but it doesn’t have to be confusing. Educate yourself and find supportive groups to walk alongside you as you explore your path. You got this!