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Hello,
Thank you for writing to me about how you are feeling. From what you've said it sounds like you’re going through a tough time at the moment with your friends at school.
I can hear that you feel frustrated with the way your friends treat you and that they say and do things which upset you. This is a form of bullying and is wrong. Perhaps you could take a look at our bullying page and read more about how bullying can affect people.
I can understand how difficult it is for you to know what to do because the same people who you trust to be your friends are the ones causing the problem. One idea could be to think about who you feel closest to and start by talking to that person by themselves. Once you have their support it might be easier to talk to the others.
You also said you want to keep your friendships but change yourself. It sounds like your friends have affected your self-confidence. Sometimes we try and be the person we think other people want us to be, rather than our real selves – especially when it comes to fitting in with our friends.
I would suggest taking some time alone and writing down the things that make you the person you are. Make sure to include good things about yourself as well, but if there’s anything you don’t like then write what you’d like to change and why you think it needs to change. It’d be good to ask yourself if you want it to change for you or for other people.
I can hear your friendships are very important so you may find looking at our page on friendships could be useful. If you would like talk more we’d be happy to hear from you - a ChildLine counsellor is here to listen either through 1-2-1 chat, email or by calling 0800 1111.
Take care
Sam
Contact a counsellor online or call 0800 1111. Calls are free and confidential.