MENTAL HEALTH IN THE HEART OF MAUN

During adolescence, friendships take on a very special role. Friends become daily companions, points of reference, and often the place where one feels understood. With them, laughter, secrets, doubts, and important decisions are shared. Sometimes, their opinions even carry more weight than those of family. But… how much do friends really influence what I think, feel, and do? How can I tell whether a group helps me grow or pushes me into things I don’t truly want? Is it possible to stay true to myself without ending up alone? These questions are key to understanding the power of friendship at this stage of life. This post invites you to reflect on the influence of your peer group and how to choose friendships that support, protect, and respect who you are. 1. Friends as a Place of Belonging Friends are often the first place where a teenager feels they belong outside the family. With them comes a sense of belonging: feeling accepted, valued, and part of something. This feeling is importa...

There are moments—especially during adolescence—when a person begins to ask who they really are. Not only what they like or what they are good at, but whether it is okay to be the way they are . In the midst of comparisons, family expectations, peer pressure, and constant messages from social media, being oneself can feel risky. Many adolescents quickly learn that “fitting in” seems safer than being different. They adapt, stay silent, disguise themselves, or hide parts of who they are to avoid being judged. Over time, this strategy may protect them from immediate rejection, but it can also create fear, confusion, and a deep sense of not truly belonging. But… what happens when I stop trying to be like others? Why does personal diversity generate so much fear? Is it possible to be myself and still feel accepted? How can I embrace what makes me unique without shame or guilt? These questions are essential for growing with a stronger and freer sense of identity. This post reflects on person...