Feeling unsafe—whether it’s at home, online, with friends, or around an adult crossing boundaries—can mess with every part of your life. But here’s the truth: you’re not powerless, and you don’t have to handle it alone. In this episode, we break down what to do when safety feels out of reach. From identifying what’s really going on to creating a plan and finding people who can help, we’ve got you covered. It’s all about taking small steps toward stability, because your safety isn’t negotiable—you deserve respect and support, no matter what.

Contacts for Support – If You’re Feeling Unsafe

UK Contacts

• Childline: Call 0800 1111 or visit childline.org.uk for free, confidential support 24/7.
• NSPCC Helpline: Call 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk for advice and support on concerns about child safety.
• The Mix: Call 0808 808 4994 or chat online at themix.org.uk for support tailored to under-25s.

Other Countries

• USA: Call or text the National Runaway Safeline at 1-800-786-2929 or visit 1800runaway.org.
• Canada: Contact Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868; visit kidshelpphone.ca.
• Australia: Call Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800 or visit kidshelpline.com.au.
• Worldwide: Access Child Helpline International to find a helpline in your country at childhelplineinternational.org.

Got something to say? - send me a voice note - https://www.speakpipe.com/Headstraight

If you need more information about helplines, services or what do to if you're in a crisis, take a look at our resource page: https://www.headstraight.co.uk/resources

Click here to view the episode transcript.

Ever feel like you’re handling everything on your own? In this episode, we’re breaking down how to create a support system that actually works. From figuring out who’s really there for you, to telling them why they’re important, to finding new connections with people who get you—we’re covering it all. Whether it’s strengthening your current relationships, getting closer to family, or finding mentors who’ll step up, this is your guide to building a support network that’s there when you need it most.

Got something to say? - send me a voice note - https://www.speakpipe.com/Headstraight

If you need more information about helplines, services or what do to if you're in a crisis, take a look at our resource page: https://www.headstraight.co.uk/resources

Click here to view the episode transcript.

In this episode, we tackle the big question: Why can’t I control my feelings? If you’ve ever felt like your emotions are on a wild rollercoaster that you didn’t sign up for, this one’s for you. From anger and fear to sadness and everything in between, emotions can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when you're in your teens. But what does it really mean to "control" your emotions, and is that even possible? We break down the science behind why emotions can feel so intense and offer practical tips on how to start managing them instead of letting them control you. Get ready to understand what’s happening in your brain, why emotions hit harder at certain times, and how to navigate them without losing your cool. Plus, we’ll share tools that’ll help you regain control of your emotions, one step at a time. Tune in for a no-nonsense look at how to stop letting your feelings drive the bus.

Got something to say? - send me a voice note - https://www.speakpipe.com/Headstraight

If you need more information about helplines, services or what do to if you're in a crisis, take a look at our resource page: https://www.headstraight.co.uk/resources

Click here to view the episode transcript.

In this first episode of Headstraight, we explore the all-too-common feeling of "not being good enough" that creeps in when we least expect it. Whether it’s comparing yourself to others or battling impossible standards, we break down why this feeling is so powerful and what you can do about it. Through real-talk and actionable insights, you’ll learn how to challenge those negative thoughts and start reclaiming your confidence. Tune in for practical advice on how to stop letting the "not good enough" voice hold you back, and begin taking control of your worth today.

Got something to say? - send me a voice note - https://www.speakpipe.com/Headstraight

If you need more information about helplines, services or what do to if you're in a crisis, take a look at our resource page: https://www.headstraight.co.uk/resources

Click here to view the episode transcript.

Welcome to season one - Understanding Emotions, where we dive deep into the feelings that often overwhelm us and explore what's really going on behind them. In this season, we’ll break down the complexities of emotions—from self-doubt and social pressure to the intensity of anxiety and frustration. You’ll learn how to take control of the stories you tell yourself and understand why emotions hit harder than expected. We’ll also focus on building healthy relationships, creating emotional safety, and making decisions that move you forward. With practical steps to improve your mental health, this season is designed to help you feel more in charge of your emotions and life. If you've ever felt like your emotions were running the show, this podcast is for you.

Got something to say? - send me a voice note - https://www.speakpipe.com/Headstraight

If you need more information about helplines, services or what do to if you're in a crisis, take a look at our resource page: https://www.headstraight.co.uk/resources

Click here to view the episode transcript.

Welcome to a brand new mental health podcast - Headstraight. My name's mark and I'm a mental health nurse with over three decades of experience working with adolescents and young adults who wanted to find better ways to manage their struggles and gain better mental heaalth.

If you're an adolescent or young adult looking for real answers to your mental health questions, you're in the right place. In each episode, I'll tackle your real-life questions head-on, offering practical advice that's easy to understand and put into action. No fancy jargon—just straightforward, practical solutions to help you see things more clearly.

But first, let me introduce you to the four main themes that will serve as the foundation for Headstraight:

1. Self-Awareness: I can't stress enough the importance of self-awareness as a fundamental aspect of personal growth and development. We'll explore understanding your emotions, recognizing your strengths and weaknesses, and cultivating mindfulness. This might be difficut for you, as I will ask you to directly challenge yourself, take an inward look and be open to learning about things you didn't know about yourself.

2. Taking Responsibility: Responsibility is a key component of a healthy mental outlook. I'll discuss the concept of taking responsibility for your actions, choices, and outcomes. We'll explore accountability, decision-making processes, and the positive impact of personal responsibility on your personal success. You will also learn that taking responsibility can free you from freeling out of control and helpless, helping you to become more empowered and in charge.

3. Effective Communication: Communication is essential in all aspects of life. I'll talk about the importance of effective communication skills, including active listening, assertiveness, conflict resolution, and building healthy relationships. Have you ever felt that others just don't hear or understand you? It may be that with new knowledge and tweeking how you connmmunicate, you'll have more successs and feel heard. Throughout the episodes, you'll get practical tips, communication exercises, and examples of effective communication in various contexts.

4. Making Change: Life is full of changes. . I'll explore the process of making positive changes in your life, covering topics like goal setting, overcoming obstacles, and developing resilience. You'll learn strategies for habit formation, time management, and self-motivation. Change sometimes doesn't feel easy, but it's really important if you're going to move forward and develop better mental health

So, how will this podcast be useful to me...? Throughout my work with adolescents and young people, I have been asked hundreds of questions about why they experience their lives the way they do, or why they feel a certain way. I've also heard so many adolescents and young people share their beliefs about themselves and the world around them that, if not explored, would make it difficult for them to move on and gain better mental health.

So for you, I have brought together the most common beliefs and questions that have been shared with me, and I'm going to exlore them, as I'm sure that some of you that are listening right now may be struggling with similar thoughts.

So, on each episode, I will take a question or belief and discuss it, for example, talking about how it may have formed and what effects this thought is having on your mental health. I'll then give you actionalble strategies that you can use to challenge the thought, to see things from a different perspective and ultimately, to gain better mental health.

A thought about your safety.. We, here at Headstraight can't provide you with direct support or treatment. This podcast is designed to give information and to help you to find better ways of managing, but it doesn't replace treatment. If you are actively hurting yourself or are having thoughts of doing so, you need to talk to a trusted adult.

So, come join us at Headstraight to learn and explore better ways to manage your mental health. Don't forget to subscribe - what would you like us to cover...? - send me a voice note - https://www.speakpipe.com/Headstraight

If you need more information about helplines, services or what do to if you're in a crisis, take a look at our resource page: https://www.headstraight.co.uk/resources

Click here to view the episode transcript.