Self esteem

Among the youngsters, “belonging to something” has always been a struggle. Which outfit do my peers wear? Am I too fat? Do I have to wear makeup? What is popular to talk about? What kind of music do I listen to? And even how I talk to others has been something that is a maze in your youth for years. Because of the internet and Multi-media we are getting even more influences from abroad at the moment. Trends that are popular in Japan or fads in America are seen by youngsters, so the pressure to participate has become much greater.

Because of this we see that children become uncertain about their own appearance. Their self-image suffers, and this make them feel unhappy about themselves. When this persists, it can lead to various forms of depression. They can follow different life patterns which can lead to diseases such as bulimia or anorexia. Auto mutilation is also a phenomenon that is discussed on the telephone line of Fundacion Telefon pa Hubentud Aruba. The physical damage to yourself by means of cutting, for example, has increased in the Fundacion Telefon pa Hubentud Aruba figures in recent years. This problem is not only prevalent in Aruba, but there are more and more reports of this type of behavior worldwide.

All these diseases can gear to suicidal thoughts or attempts. Talking about your behavior is the first step in the right direction. Understanding every path you’re in is very important in these situations. Getting help is necessary when the depression has taken over.

Should this happen, Fundacion Telefon pa Hubentud Aruba is there to help when needed. We are the listening ear that gives guidance in a low-threshold way and then refer you to an institution where you will immediately be offered help.