Bullying, Body Changes & Confidence

Puberty brings big changes in your body, your emotions, and even how you see yourself. Sometimes, these changes can lead to teasing, embarrassment, or self-doubt. Remember, everyone develops at their own pace and in their own way, and there’s nothing to be ashamed of.

This stage of life is about learning, growing, and becoming comfortable in your skin. And with the right support, it can be a time of pride, not pressure.

Understanding Body Changes

During puberty, your body begins to grow, shift, and prepare for adulthood. This might include:

• Growing breasts or hair in new places

• Getting your first period

• Changes in height, shape, or weight

• Stronger emotions or new feelings

It’s completely normal to feel unsure or even embarrassed at times, but these changes show your body is doing exactly what it’s supposed to do. Everyone’s journey is a bit different, and that’s something to celebrate.

Why Bullying Happens

Sometimes people tease others because they don’t understand what’s happening, or because they feel insecure about their own changes. Teasing or making comments about someone’s body is never okay, and it often says more about the person teasing than the person being teased.

If someone says something hurtful:

• Remember, it’s not your fault.

• Talk to a trusted adult, teacher, or friend about what happened.

• Try not to believe mean words. They don’t define you.

At New Moon, we encourage young people to stand together, speak up, and look out for one another. No one should feel ashamed for being human.

Building Confidence in Your Changing Body

Confidence doesn’t mean loving every part of yourself all the time. It means accepting that your body is always changing and still deserves care and respect.

Ways to boost body confidence:

• Be kind to yourself. Notice your thoughts and ask yourself if you would speak that way to a friend.

• Wear what makes you feel comfortable. There’s no “right” way to dress during puberty.

• Move your body in ways you enjoy. Dancing, walking, or stretching can help you connect with your body’s strength.

• Focus on what your body can do, not just how it looks.

• Unfollow or mute social media pages that make you feel bad about yourself. Your feed should lift you up, not tear you down.

Your worth doesn’t come from your shape, skin, or size. It comes from who you are and how you treat others.

For Parents, Carers & Mentors

Your reaction to a young person’s body changes shapes how they feel about themselves.

Supportive things you can do:

• Avoid comments about weight or shape. Focus on health, comfort, and confidence.

• Encourage self-expression through clothing, hair, and hobbies.

• Listen without judgment if they talk about teasing or comparison.

• Model body positivity in your own language. Speak kindly about your own body, too.

Every word you say plants a seed. Make it one that grows confidence, not shame.

Creating a Culture of Kindness

We all play a role in making growing up easier for each other. Kindness and inclusion aren’t just nice ideas; they change lives.

You can:

• Speak up if someone’s being teased.

• Compliment others on who they are, not just how they look.

• Celebrate differences. They’re what make our world interesting and beautiful.

• Start conversations at school or home about respect and empathy.

Small actions like a smile, a kind word, or simply asking, “Are you okay?” can make a big difference to someone who feels alone or self-conscious.

Final Thoughts

Puberty isn’t always easy, but it’s temporary and a sign of healthy growth. Bodies come in all shapes, sizes, and timelines, and every one of them is perfectly normal.

By choosing kindness toward ourselves and others, we make space for confidence to grow. And remember, if you’re ever feeling unsure, embarrassed, or alone, New Moon is here with resources, guides, and community to remind you that you’re never going through it by yourself.