Health & Relationships

Being healthy isn't only about not being ill, it's much more positive than that. It's about feeling good, physically and mentally, and having the energy to get the most out of life. Decide for yourself how important a healthy lifestyle is for you. Things like taking exercise, eating sensibly and getting enough sleep will all contribute to good health. Smoking, drinking or taking illegal substances can all harm your health, but it can be difficult to resist when those around you want you to join in. It may be a cliche, but you do have a choice! Your health is your responsibility.

What You Eat

What you eat affects how you look and feel. If you eat a good mixture of foods, your body will get most of the things it needs to be healthy. A healthy diet is one which includes:

• lots of fruits and vegetables, try to have 4-5 portions everyday
• plenty of filling high fibre starchy foods such as bread, chapattis, rice, pasta (wholegrain types are best) and potatoes
• some protein foods; choose a mixture from fish, lean meat, eggs, cheese, nuts, peas, beans and lentils
• small amounts of fatty and sugary food
• some milk and dairy foods every day. Try to include milk, yoghurt and cheese with low or reduced fat versions to cut fat but not calcium.

Most people would be healthier if they ate less sugar and fat. If you are vegetarian or vegan, it is particularly important that you eat a good mix of food, to get all the nutrients you need. For more information, contact your local supermarket for a leaflet, or ask at your local health food shop.

Slimming

Unfortunately, in our society there is a great deal of unnecessary pressure to be slim. If you really need to lose weight, the best way is to do it is gradually, by eating the right amount of the right kinds of food and by taking more exercise. Aim to lose 1-2lbs per week, using the guidance on the previous page. Crash diets, slimming products and missing meals are not recommended and may lead to excessive weight gain in the long term. To get a correct assessment of whether you are the right weight for your height, contact the practice nurse at your G.P.'s or health centre.

Eating Disorders

Anorexia - This is characterised by:

• fear of fatness
• under eating
• binge eating
• vigorous excercise

Bulimia - This is characterised by:

• fear of fatness
• binge eating
• normal weight but with regular weight fluctuations
• vomiting and/or excessive use of laxatives

In Girls / Women

• monthly periods stop
• irregular periods

If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have an eating disorder, you can contact:

Hygiene - Keeping Clean!

Keeping clean! All bodies have natural and pleasant smells; stale sweat is what causes body odour - there's no need to spend loads of money on deodorants or body sprays if you wash or bath everyday, or more often if you've been exercising. Also, make sure your clothes, especially underwear, are washed regularly.

Spots

It's quite common for people in their teens to develop spots, particularly on the face and back. The message has to be - don't squeeze, don't fiddle with them, avoid touching them. Regular cleansing with a gentle face wash will help, but if the spots are severe, go and see your practice nurse or GP. You may have acne and there are a range of treatments which may help.

Exercise & Activity

(see also leisure and 'leisure' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

If you can fit exercise into your life a few times a week you'll look and feel good, with a strong, healthy body. Most people can manage some form of activity and it doesn't need to be expensive. There are often discounts for young people. You need to exercise in a variety of ways to get the most benefit. Moderate activity is recommended; things like cycling, running, fast walking and dancing are good for the larger muscles of your body and they also work your heart, helping to protect you against heart disease.

You also need the kind of exercise that stretches and tones your body, keeping you supple as well as strong. You could try yoga or martial arts or exercise routines. These can be done at evening classes or even lunch times - your local sports centre or youth worker will have details.

• choose activities you really enjoy
• exercise regularly - try and aim for 5 times a week
• start gently and build it up
• go for a variety of exercise for most benefit
• helps to improve your skin and control your weight
• get into the habit - it's a great stress-buster
• it's a great way to meet new people and make friends.

Sports, Fitness and Drugs

There can be a lot of pressure to win, to always get better at any sport, and so sometimes people involved in sports use drugs to improve their performance. At first there may be obvious benefits, such as developing bigger muscles or seeming faster, but all drugs have side effects and may cause long term problems.

As drug use in sport is often done on the quiet, the only information immediately available is word of mouth, which cannot always be relied upon. You can be sold or given anything from baking powder to dangerous chemicals without being able to tell until you've used it. Never take anything if you're not sure what it is.

One large group of drugs often connected with sports is anabolic steroids. Steroids are used a lot in bodybuilding and weightlifting. There are many different types of steroid, and some are extremely powerful. These can put the body at risk and may make you feel irritable and aggressive after a while. Steroids are often injected into a muscle such as the thigh or buttocks-this is risky if you have not been shown exactly what to do, and injecting can spread HIV and hepatitis, if needles are shared.

All of these drugs require hard work and training as well in order to build muscle - don't believe anyone who says otherwise. You might start out by trying to improve your image and your fitness, and just end up making yourself ill.

You may be tested for drugs if you are training for or entering sporting events and it could lead to a ban from the sport for a time or altogether, if they show up in your samples. Local drugs projects provide information and advice on all aspects of drug use, including steroids and safer injecting. (see 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

Drugs

(See also you and your rights & 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

There are no hard or soft drugs, no good or bad drugs. It all depends on what people do with them and the circumstances under which drugs are used. The legal status of a drug also tells us little about the amount of damage it can do. Tobacco and alcohol individually cause more damage and deaths than all the other drugs put together.

Smoking

(See also you and your rights & 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

Tobacco smoke contains over 4000 different chemicals, many of which are harmful. One of the chemicals is nicotine, a powerful, fast acting and addictive drug. One of the greatest risks young people face is becoming addicted to the effects of nicotine and beginning a life-long dependency on tobacco.

Smoking reduces your fitness, makes your hair and clothes smell, costs a lot of money and can cause serious health problems including heart disease and cancer of the lungs, mouth and throat. It can also cause problems with fertility.

If you smoke, think about stopping now. It is never too late. Nearly two out of three young people who do smoke want to stop. The single most important factor in giving up is YOU - you have got to want to stop. Why not take the first step and have a go at stopping for the next month?

Helpful Advice

Non-smokers also suffer illness as a result of breathing other people's tobacco smoke - passive smoking. If you are concerned about the issue and fed up with breathing other people's smoke, find out if your school, community centre or workplace has a smoking policy ie. rules about where people are allowed to smoke. If not ask for one. Information is available from Yorkshire Ash (see above).

Alcohol

(See also you and your rights & 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

This can sometimes make you feel relaxed and happy. But alcohol can also make you feel miserable, argumentative, aggressive, tired and low. This is because alcohol is a depressant. So although alcohol is sometimes used to deal with difficult emotions and to forget problems, it does not solve them and may increase feelings of anxiety or depression.

The alcoholic content is measured in units. The diagram shows what a unit is for normal pub measures

pint of a strong beer, cider or lager can contain four or five units home measures are usually much more generous than pub measures.

The recommended limit is 3-4 units per day for men, 2-3 for women. If you regularly drink the maximum amount or binge at weekends, you could be damaging your health. However, there are times when even one or two drinks can be too much - for example if you are going to drive, operate machinery or if you are taking certain types of drugs. When it comes to how much alcohol affects us we are all different; generally women are more at risk from the harmful effects of alcohol than men.

If you would like to talk to someone about your own or someone else's drinking, the following national organisations offer help and support:

Useful Publications - 'That's the Limit' and 'Women and Drinking' available from your GP.

Volatile Substance Abuse

One very dangerous activity which doesn’t come under ‘illegal drug use’ is the inhaling or “sniffing” of what are called volatile substances. They used to be referred to as ‘glue’, ‘gas’ or ‘solvents’ and many ordinary, household and garden shed products can be abused.

People are looking to get the same kind of effect they would have from drinking alcohol but because of the way they are used and affect the body, the very first time you use a volatile substance could be the last.

There’s no way of knowing how it will affect you individually or how much is too much – there is no such thing as building up tolerance. People can do crazy, dangerous things whilst under the influence. Anyone suspected of having used these substances should be kept calm and safe; the flight mechanism can lead to people running into possibly lethal situations. The clear message about VSA is “don’t even think of doing it”!

Illegal Drugs

(See also you and your rights & 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

People may have problems with all sorts of drugs, from sleeping tablets to heroin. Taking drugs which haven't been prescribed to you can be dangerous. Never mix drugs and alcohol. If you think someone has become ill through taking drugs and/or alcohol, send for a doctor at once. He/she will not tell your parents or the police.

If you are thinking about using illegal drugs, there are a few extra things you need to consider. The first is, do you really want to break the law? Even though lots of people, even professionals, use illegal drugs, that isn't a defence in the eyes of the law; some of the drugs could even be less harmful than some legal ones but if you get caught you have committed a criminal offence and if prosecuted you will have a criminal record. This could well affect the type of career you want to pursue, especially if you want to join the police or security forces, for example.

It is also worth knowing that it is illegal to allow people to consume or supply drugs in your house or car, even if you don't use them yourself.

Sharing drugs with friends is classed as 'supplying' and is a much more serious offence than 'possession'.

The other main issue concerns the quality of the drugs that are available on the illegal market. Even though most people buy drugs from people they know and trust, the quality is often very poor. Chemical based drugs like ecstasy and LSD are difficult to produce in a pure form, so the quality and strength tends to vary from batch to batch. This can cause problems as it is difficult to know the effect of a set dose. Some less scrupulous dealers will also sell people fake drugs that contain none of the product and sometimes contain dangerous substances. This is particularly the case with drugs in a pill form, when any pill can be sold instead, be it a dog worming tablet, an aspirin or a laxative!

Powder based drugs such as heroin and amphetamine are often less than 20% pure as they have been diluted with other powders such as talc or glucose. Apart from a lot of money being spent on a little bit of the drug, the other substances added can cause physical damage to the body, especially if they are injected directly into the bloodstream. Injecting any drugs with unclean equipment can lead to other infections and if the needle or other injecting gear has been contaminated with someone else's blood, there is a further risk of infection by HIV or hepatitis. Clean needles and advice about safer injecting are available from exchange schemes and drug projects, (see 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) but the clear message has to be DON'T INJECT DRUGS.

Many professionals disagree as to which drugs are addictive, what addiction is and if there is such a thing as 'hard' and 'soft' drugs. However, they would agree that no matter what the substance, some people will have a problem because of it. Most people start off using a drug socially because they enjoy it. The major danger is that the experience can be so good that they do it again and again and again - until they do little else! The drug use becomes such a major part of their life that it can cause social, physical, mental, financial or legal problems for them, not to mention the problems that it can lead to with the immediate family and the wider community. All drugs should be given the respect they deserve. Be aware that deciding to experiment with drugs can have long term effects.

If you would like more details about individual drugs and their effects, the following provide helpful information:

If you feel you need help from a specialist drug service but are unable to find one locally (see 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page), contact:

These agencies will provide you with free leaflets and can give you the telephone number of the nearest local agency which can help if you or someone you know has a problem with solvents/drugs or alcohol.

Relationships

There are different levels of relationship - the word literally means how you 'relate to' another person. So that doesn't only mean a sexual relationship, or marriage, or living together. It's also about friendships, families and even workmates. It applies to heterosexual, gay, lesbian or bi-sexual partnerships.

Relationships are rarely perfect and usually involve compromise. All relationships go through rough patches. If this is what's happening to you, it's definitely worth making the effort to talk to each other about how you feel. Communication is really important and it's often poor communication that makes relationships go wrong. Try to see the other person's point of view - it may help you to understand how they feel.

If you are having a lot of difficulty talking about things, you may want to go and talk to someone who's not involved.

The Samaritans will listen to you, whatever your problem, in confidence. Your school nurse can also help. Well Women's Centres also offer a counselling service. Contact your GP surgery for the number of the one nearest to you. (see 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

An agency like Relate could also be useful if you have a relationship problem. (see 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)They offer counselling to all couples, including gay and lesbian couples. You will need to make an appointment for this service.

Gay, Lesbian, Bi-sexual or Transgender?

(See also you and your rights & 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

It can be very scary when we first realise we may be gay. This is because some people don't accept gays, and say that we are 'sick' and 'perverted'. We may be having feelings for members of the same sex but at the same time we don't want to be "abnormal". So our emotions are in turmoil. The important thing to remember is that it is ok! THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH YOU! You are not 'sick', 'perverted' or 'abnormal'. Lesbian and gay young people usually begin to think they are 'different' from about 11 years (or younger) and then realise, around puberty, that this difference is because they are gay.

Some people don't have a problem accepting their sexuality: they make contact with other lesbians and gays, attend the local gay youth group and get involved in discussions, trips, visits to other youth groups, etc. Others may have problems coming to terms with their sexuality, and may not have the support of family or friends.

If this is you, it is important you get help: you aren't the only gay person in your school, village, town. It's estimated that about 10% of the population are gay. This means that if you are in a class of 30 people, at least two others will be gay (as well as yourself)! It is unlikely, however, that they will have told anyone.

It is important that you:

• Get access to accurate information
• Contact your local gay youth group.

Most local towns and cities have a gay youth group.

Have a look at the GALYIC website: www.galyic.org.uk for details of your nearest group and for more information about coming out. For the phone number of your nearest group see 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page

You might also like to look at www.lesbianinformationservice.org which provides lots more information, especially for youth workers and parents. Good Luck!

Family (See also the law and your family)

Despite what you see in the adverts, if you look around you'll notice that families aren't always made up of mum, dad and two children.

• Who do you include in your family?
• How well do you get on?
• Do you try to listen to each other and have respect for each other's opinions?

Very few family groups get on perfectly all the time - some disagreement is healthy! But family relationships, like all other relationships, need give and take and a bit of effort from everyone, if they're going to work. So you have some responsibility too!

If there are major problems in your family, there are agencies that may be able to help. Relate (see 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) will see family groups and help them to talk their problems through.

If you have left home and want your family to know you are safe, telephone the Samaritans (see 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) or ring

Living together / getting married

(See also marriage and the law)

You and your partner may decide to live together or get married. Being together all the time is very different from going out together. It can cause problems if you expect different things - for instance, sharing the cooking or housework. It's a good idea to talk about these things beforehand and review them from time to time to see if you both still agree. If you are not married and you rent or buy somewhere to live, there are legal implications about property.

Fed Up or Stressed Out?

If you're feeling depressed, in trouble, anxious, suicidal or lonely, it can sometimes seem like you're the only one. Your friends or family can often be sympathetic but you may need more support than they can give you. There are a number of places you can go to for help.

Try asking your school nurse or practice nurse for help. The Samaritans (See also 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) or CAB (See also 'you and your rights' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)will have the telephone number of helplines or support services in your area. Some agencies offer general support. Others focus on particular issues such as stress management (which can help if you've got exam worries) eating disorders or sexual abuse, homophobia or racism or bereavement.

You could also try:

Sex & Sexuality

(See also you and your rights & 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

There's a lot of information and talk about sex these days. Some of it's inaccurate and confusing.

Make sure you get your information from a reliable source such as the Family Planning Clinic - this may be called something like and Sexual Health Service (CaSH)(See also 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page). Most areas also now have services available for young people, where you can get confidential advice and free contraception.

But that's only one aspect of sex. The emotional side can be much more difficult to handle. Apart from anything else, it's easy to feel pressured into having sex before you really want to. Different religions and cultures have different views on matters of sex and contraception and abortion. Your family, your religion and your friends may all have conflicting views. This can make decisions confusing and difficult. Remember, sex isn't compulsory - the 'right time' should be when it's right for you.

A lot of people have sex when drunk or drugged up and regret it later. Make sure it's your choice, everytime.

Sexuality

(See also you and your rights & 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

One definition could be 'how you feel about yourself as a sexual being'. That doesn't just mean having sex but a whole range of feelings and things you might do relating to sex, including who you are sexually attracted to - your sexual orientation - whether you regard yourself as 'straight', 'gay', 'lesbian' , 'bisexual' or 'transgender'.

• Heterosexual ('straight')
  Being sexually attracted to, fancying, loving people of the opposite sex.
• Bi-sexual
  Being sexually attracted to, fancying, loving people of both sexes.
• Homosexual ('gay', 'lesbian')
  Being sexually attracted to, fancying, loving people of the same sex.
• Transgender (transpeople)
  Having an overwhelming desire to live and function as the opposite sex.
• Celibate (not having sex with anyone)
  This may be through choice or not; it may be temporary or permanent. People can be celibate whatever their sexual orientation.

Contraception

(See also you and your rights & 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

There are many different types of contraceptive and making the right choice can be complicated. Things you need to consider:

• how reliable is the method?
• is it still reliable if I'm ill?
• how does it affect my body?
• how is it used?
• do I need a prescription for it?
• how easily available is it?
• how much does it cost?
• can I use it if I'm under 16?
• does it offer protection from Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI's) and HIV?

Many forms of contraception will only be issued with a doctor's prescription from your GP, Family Planning Clinic, Contraception & Sexual Health Clinic or Young Person's Clinic (See page 108-109). It's a good idea to visit one of these in any case, so that you can talk about the method that would suit you best. Consultations are confidential.

Condoms

Condoms are very effective if used properly - they protect both of you from STI's (inc. HIV) as well as being a contraceptive - and they're FREE at the Family Planning Clinic, Contraception & Sexual Health Clinic (CaSH), Young Person's Clinic & some GP's.

How to use a condom:

open the wrapper carefully so as not to damage the condom.

squeeze the air out of the top as you're rolling it on.

unroll the condom all the way down the erect penis (it only unrolls properly one way...make sure the rim is on the outside)

while withdrawing the penis, hold onto the base to stop the condom slipping off.

dispose of condom by wrapping in tissue and putting in the bin.

If the condom feels uncomfortable, try another type or brand - they are all slightly different.

practise BEFORE you have sex.

Condom Quality

• use a kitemarked condom
• check the expiry date
• don't keep condoms anywhere hot (like a sunny window sill)
• only use a condom once!

You can buy some contraceptives at chemists and condoms are also available in supermarkets, public toilet vending machines, garages and even some record shops.

With any contraception how reliable it is depends on how well it is being used - so it's important to find out as much as you can about a method (before you need to use it!)

For detailed information about contraceptive methods, or free leaflets, contact your Family Planning, Contraception and Sexual Health Clinic (CaSH) or Young Person's Clinic, (See 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) or:

Emergency Contraception

If you have had unprotected sex (or you think your contraceptive method has failed) and are worried you may be pregnant, get emergency contraception (sometimes called 'the morning after' pill) as soon as possible. It is effective up to 72 hours after intercourse, but the sooner you take it, the more effective it is. There is also a new type of coil which is effective up to 5 days afterwards. Go to your GP, Family Planning Clinic, Contraception and Sexual Health Clinic (CaSH) or Young Person's Clinic (See also 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

Emergency contraception means what it says - it should only be used in emergencies. If you continue to have sex you should use a regular method that is suitable for you.

Pregnancy and Testing

If you have had sex and your period is more than two weeks late, you may be pregnant. Find out for certain by having a test done. You can get a free test from your doctor or Family Planning Clinics or Contraception and Sexual Health Clinic (See also 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page). Kits are available from chemists but they are expensive and it can be quite easy to make a mistake with them. Some chemist shops will do the test for you but you will be charged.

If you're pregnant (See also rights at work )

Having a baby is a big responsibility. Consider your options carefully and seek advice. Tell your parents or guardian if you can - you may find them extremely helpful. The following people or agencies can help:

• Your doctor
• Family Planning Clinic, Contraception & Sexual Health Clinic (CaSH)
• Young Person's Clinic
• Social Services
• School Nurse at your school

If you are going ahead with the pregnancy, it's important to contact your doctor and arrange ante-natal (before birth) check ups. Get information about benefits and housing (if necessary). If you are working, you should be entitled to maternity leave. (See rights at work)

Being a Parent

(See also you and your rights & 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

For lots of people, particularly teenagers, becoming a parent was not a real choice, it was just something that 'happened'. But a lot of young parents say, that although they really love their child, if they'd known how difficult it can be to bring a child up, they would have waited until they were older. The cost of it all, both emotionally and financially, is something they hadn't really expected.

One young parent who had her first child at 17 said 'Don't think about getting pregnant and think it is an easy way to get out of life, just think about what you want, get a job and have your life before you have kids....for boys I would say - treat women like you would expect someone to treat your sister.'

Just a quick calculation:

• One week's worth of nappies £12.15
• One week's worth of baby food £20.00
• One year's worth of: Maternity clothes £227.00
• Baby clothes £73.00
• Baby bath/accessories £83.00
• Pushchair/pram £270.00
• Feeding equipment £43.00
• Nursery furniture, e.g. cot, home safety e.g. stair gate/baby monitor/ fire guard £420.00
• Toys £200.00

(All costs are approximate, based on information at www.babycentre.co.uk)

Add that to other costs such as childminders, rent, council tax, bills, etc. That doesn't leave much money for your food or clothes, never mind going out or holidays.

There are very good reasons to wait until you're older: you're more independent, more able to cope financially, less likely to need massive amounts of support from your own family.

If you are a parent, then there are sources of help. The government is especially keen to support young parents and to help them get back into school, college or work. There are new plans which will provide a personal or careers adviser for each young person, to help them with choices about their future. An interview at the local Benefits Agency will set out which entitlements apply to you (See 'money' local addresess drop down menu at the top of this page). It's important to get advice about individual circumstances. Most people don't want a future on benefits - but once someone's in that position it can be very difficult to get out.

Abortion (see also 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

If you're thinking of having an abortion it's important to talk to someone you can trust.

Be aware that people have different views about abortion and some may seek to influence your decision - remember it's up to you. If you decide not to go ahead with an abortion, you may wish to talk to somebody about the support available to young mothers and babies.

Family Planning, Contraception and Sexual Health Clinic and Young Person's Clinics (see 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) offer a free, confidential service, whatever your age. You can also contact:

These agencies will be able to give you a contact for your area. These agencies will give you time to talk it over with a counsellor before you see the doctor. You may be able to get an abortion on the NHS; other agencies may not charge either - it depends on your circumstances.

If you decide to go ahead, remember that time is important. An abortion is much simpler if you are less than 12 weeks pregnant. Later abortions are safe but a different method is used. Make sure you get proper help. Don't be tempted to try 'back-street' methods - they are very dangerous

Adoption (see also rights)

If you choose to have your baby adopted, think carefully. If that is what you want, your doctor can arrange for you to discuss it with a social worker. If you're not sure, you could also have the child fostered until you've made up your mind. You can get help from:

If you have had your child adopted and feel you would like support and help contact:

Being Adopted
If you have been adopted and would like to discuss your feelings with someone, the Post Adoption Centre listed above will offer support.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

A few facts to remember:

• STIs are common and usually easily treated (except, HIV and Hepatitis).
• You can't tell by looking at a person whether they have an infection or not.
• You may have an infection yourself and not know.
• You can become infected however many or few sexual partners you have.
• Some STIs (Herpes, for instance) can be passed on during oral sex.
• Some STIs can lead to infertility if not treated, particularly chlamydia.
• Cases of STIs have recently increased in young people: use condoms! If in doubt, get checked.
• Cases of Chlamydia have risen sharply in young people.

If you notice any unusual discharge, sores or itching in your genital or anal area, or a burning sensation when you pee, you may have an infection that needs treatment. Even if the symptoms disappear by themselves the infection probably won't have. The sooner you have it checked out, the easier it is to treat. Women often don't have symptoms at all, so if your sexual partner has symptoms, don't wait for yours to appear - you are very likely to be infected too, if you have not been using condoms. In fact, if you have any worries, the staff at any Genito Urinary (G.U.) clinic (see 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) will offer you confidential advice, whatever your age. You can go to a G.U. Clinic in any area - most hospitals have them. Just ring up for an appointment yourself.

HIV/AIDS

Some important points:

• HIV has not gone away - there have been sharp rises in new cases since 2000.
• There are people living with HIV & AIDS everywhere. Give them your support not prejudice!
• You can't tell by looking who has the virus and who hasn't - people with HIV can be perfectly healthy for many years.
• You can protect yourself (and others!) by using a condom. every time you have sex - and finding out about other forms of safer sex!
• HIV can infect anyone, gay, straight or bi-sexual.
• Everyday social contact is not a risk.

HIV (the virus that can lead to AIDS) can only be caught or passed on in certain ways. Infected blood, semen (cum) or vaginal fluid from one person needs to enter the bloodstream of another for HIV to be passed on. There are three ways to get or pass on HIV:

• Direct blood-to-blood contact (by sharing injecting equipment for instance)
• Unprotected sexual intercourse (vaginal or anal)
• From a mother with HIV to her baby

You can get HIV the first time you have unprotected sex with someone who has the virus - or it could take many times.

No-one knows for sure, it's a real gamble and it's not worth the risk. HIV leads to AIDS in most people and there is no cure for AIDS. So remember to use a condom , if you're having intercourse (also, if you inject drugs, don't share injecting equipment). However well you think you know someone, remember they may not know if they're infected themselves.

If you have questions about HIV/AIDS, safer sex or the HIV test, contact any of these numbers: (See 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

HIV Testing

If you think you might have put yourself at risk, you may want an HIV test. The test will need to be repeated in three months to confirm the result. During that time you must not put yourself at risk again. If you do, the result will be meaningless.

There are a lot of things to consider before and after having a test, eg.who will you tell? Any G.U. clinic will do a test free of charge and will have a counsellor available, if you want one. The service is strictly confidential, anonymous and open to anyone of any age. If you have the test done elsewhere, your GP's surgery for example, the results are likely to be put on your medical records. A number of people can request access to these records eg. like employers, insurance and mortgage companies. At the G.U. clinic this information is not made available to anyone.

If you're foing on a long trip, pack a copy of Your Passport to Sexual Health, a free booklet listing family planning services from Antigua to Zimbabwe. Send SAE to:
Marire Stopes International
1 Conway Street
Fitzroy Square
London
W1T 6LP

(See 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

Violence, Abuse & Bullying

Bullying

Bullying is a form of abuse that can happen to anyone at school, home or work.

(See also 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

Physical Violence

If you are in a relationship and your partner has hit you once, it's very likely to happen again. You may want to talk to someone you know and trust, who understands your situation and can offer help, or you may want to speak to someone who's uninvolved, a professional person experienced in this issue. don't know. You may need specific information, advice or practical help. In each area there is at least one Domestic Violence and Child Protection Unit of the Police. Each unit is staffed by officers specially trained to deal sympathetically with victims of physical and sexual violence, particularly women and children. Staff can give advice and support. There is no pressure put upon a victim to pursue a complaint of assault if they don't want to.

Other places to get help could be from your school nurse, GP or Relate. (See 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

Agencies Specifically for girls & women

(See 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

There is a national organisation call the Women's Aid Federation, who can put you in touch with local groups near you. These groups can offer practical support (for example if you want to leave home/your partner).

Agencies specifically for boys & men:

Sexual violence or abuse

(See also 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

This can take many forms - it can be harassment such as silent 'phone calls, being flashed at, being 'touched up'. It can be more physical sexual abuse like rape or incest. Often it can come from someone known to the victim - it can be an employer, a partner, a family member.

If this has happened to you, there are organisations where you can get confidential help. Whether the incident happened a long time ago or very recently, or is still taking place, you can ring:

The Samaritans are available 24 hours a day and will discuss any problem with you (See 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) .

Boys & young men

It happens to boys and men too - but it's talked about less often. You can contact the agencies referred to above, including a helpline for men & boys who have been victims of crime, violence, sexual assault or rape.

Girls & young women

You can contact the agencies referred to above, or your local Rape Crisis Centre (See 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

Run by women who are there to listen to girls and women who have been sexually assaulted, abused or harassed. There is also practical support provided in dealing with police, court and medical procedures. There may be counsellors for people with special needs.

There are also special police units trained to deal with these incidents. If physical examinations are necessary, they can be conducted by specially trained doctors (female doctors will be used, if specifically requested).

Using the Health Service

Doctors / G.P

If you are not already registered with a doctor, you should do so before you are ill. Choose a doctor in the area where you live for convenience. There is a list of doctors at main Post Offices, your local Primary Care Trust (PCT) or Central Services Agency (See 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page).

To register, take your medical card to the surgery or health centre. If you don't have a medical card you can fill in a form there or your local PCT will send you one.

Consent and Confidentiality

Whatever your age, you are entitled to a confidential consultation from your doctor. Only give your consent to any examination or treatment if you understand the information you are given, your choices and possible consequences, including the purpose and possible risks of any treatment.

If you are under 16, doctors are legally obliged to encourage you to discuss your medical problem with your parents, but even if it's about contraception, the doctor should respect your confidentiality, if they think you are competent and mature enough to understand and make a decision about this and understand the issues relating to having a sexual relationship. If she/he won't prescribe contraception and you need it, go to your Family Planning Clinic, Contraception and Sexual Health Clinic or Young Person's Clinic or Advice Centre (See 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) .

Doctors should not give information about you to anyone without your permission.

Away from home?

You can go to any doctor in an emergency and register as a temporary patient.

No address?

If you are homeless you can still get treatment. Some doctors will agree to see you. Contact your local PCT or Central Services Agency for further details (See 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

Free NHS treatment (See also dentists & health costs)

Form HC11 (2002), 'Help with Health Costs' explains in detail your entitlement to free prescriptions, dental treatment, or eye tests. It is available from the Post Office, your GP, and Social Security Offices. Below is just a brief guide.

Free prescriptions

You are entitled to these if:

• you are under 16
• you are aged 16, 17 or 18 and in full-time education
• you are 16 or 17 and financially supported by your council after leaving care
• you are pregnant (and for 12 months after the birth)
• your income is low enough
• you receive Income Support or Jobseekers Allowance
• some people who receive Working Families/Disabled Persons Tax Credits (check your award decision letter).

Meningitis

The meningitis C vaccine which protects against group C meningitis, is available from your GP, if you have missed it. it does not protect against other types of meningitis and so it's still important to know the symptoms to look out for and get medical help if you are worried;

Being sick/feverish

Neck stiffness/joint pain

Severe headache

A rash that will not fade under pressure (press a glass against the rash)

Dislike of bright light

Drowsiness Symptoms can appear in any order and not everyone will get all of them.

For information / advice contact:

Dentists

(See 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

• It's advisable to see your dentist every six months even if you think there is nothing wrong with your teeth. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, particularly before going to bed, and restricting the amount and frequency of food and drinks which contain sugar is the best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
• If you haven't got a dentist or aren't happy with your present one, you can go to another. Lists are available at your local Primary Care Trust (PCT) or Central Services Agency (see 'money' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page), main post office or library.
• Treatment is free if you are under 18, under 19 and in full time education, if you are pregnant or had a baby in the last 12 months or on a low income or you receive Income Support or Jobseekers Allowance or you are financially supported by your council after leaving care. Some people on WFTC and DFTC are eligible for free treatment. Tell the dentist before treatment starts that you don't need to pay.
• If you are not eligible for free treatment, you can still get treatment at a reduced cost if your dentist takes NHS patients. You must check before treatment starts that the dentist takes NHS patients.

Opticians

You can have an eye test at any opticians. Ask about charges. If you need glasses, the optician should give you a copy of your prescription. You can buy your glasses wherever you like. You can get help to pay for glasses and contact lenses if:

• you are under 16
• you are between 16 and 19 and in full-time education, by completing an HC1 form from your local Social Security Office (See 'money' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)
• you are financially supported by your council after leaving care.
• you are on Jobseekers Allowance or Income Support, by showing proof of your benefit
• you are on a low income
• some people on WFTC and DPTC.

It's a good idea to insure contact lenses as they can get lost easily.

Hospitals

If you have had an accident and need emergency treatment, contact or go to the 24 hour Accident and Emergency Department at the nearest hospital (See 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

Community Health Councils (CHC)

These give information about health services and handle complaints. They also have a list of self-help groups in your area. See number in phone book, the local library or post office.(See 'health' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

Alternative/Complementary Therapies

Some treatments, like acupuncture, may be available at your local health centre. Others may be more difficult to find. An information service that can help is:

Body Piercing and Tattooing

(Information provided by the NYA Youth Information Data Base)

ALWAYS have piercing and tattoos done by professionals. If you would like to know who is a registered professional in your area, contact :

If you are getting pierced or tattooed, look

out for the following:

• The shop should be clean and clearly set up for the purpose. No smoking should be allowed.
• The staff should have clean outer clothing and be wearing surgical gloves.
• They should be using sterilised equipment for each customer (in the case of tattooing, dyes and needles should be sterilised). Sterilisation is critical to avoid possible transmission of Hepatitis or HIV. If you get any kind of infection or adverse reaction to a piercing or tattoo, see a doctor as soon as possible.
• For body piercing, check that the person doing it is using surgical steel or gold. Infection and oxidisation is easier to avoid anywhere when either surgical steel or gold is used. If there is a lot of swelling you need to take the metal out because it might become embedded.

It is extremely important to remember that there is considerable pain involved both at the time and afterwards during the healing processes. Tattoos and piercing are life long commitments. If you have any reservations, then think again.

Age Restrictions

You must be over 18 to have a tattoo in this country. Branding, when designs are created by burning the skin are actually illegal, here. According to the Professional Piercers Association, there is no legal age limit for people who want a body piercing but individual shops or practitioners have their own rules. However genital piercing (and nipple piercing for girls) will not be done under the age of 16 and proof of age will be required.